Advanced Search 
Fragment of rectangular palette
Egyptian
Early Dynastic Period, Dynasty 2
possibly 2750–2649 B.C.
Findspot: Egypt, Zawyet el-Aryan, Grave Z 101/2
Medium/Technique
Greywacke
Dimensions
Length x width: 18.5 x 17 cm (7 5/16 x 6 11/16 in.)
Credit Line
Harvard University—Boston Museum of Fine Arts Expedition
Accession Number11.2499
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsAncient Egypt, Nubia and the Near East
ClassificationsTools and equipment – Cosmetic and medical
DescriptionThis is a large, almost square fragment of an originally rectangular greywacke palette. One edge is pierced with a hole for suspension. Both flat surfaces have depressions, while one face has red and black stains in the central area, all signs of use.
Stone palettes are identified particularly with earlier periods of ancient Egyptian history. Non-functional (in the utilitarian sense), often elaborately decorated "ceremonial" examples are known. Often simpler, functional examples were used to grind and mix mineral-based pigments (including ocher, malachite, hematite) that were often mixed with other substances to make cosmetics or other decorative media.
Stone palettes are identified particularly with earlier periods of ancient Egyptian history. Non-functional (in the utilitarian sense), often elaborately decorated "ceremonial" examples are known. Often simpler, functional examples were used to grind and mix mineral-based pigments (including ocher, malachite, hematite) that were often mixed with other substances to make cosmetics or other decorative media.
ProvenanceFrom Zawyet el-Aryan, grave Z 101. 1911: Excavated by the Harvard University-Museum of Fine Arts Expedition; assigned to the MFA by the government of Egypt.
(Accession Date: October 19, 1911)
(Accession Date: October 19, 1911)