Advanced Search 
Kohl jar
Egyptian
New Kingdom, Dynasty 14–18
1700–1295 B.C.
Findspot: Egypt, Possibly from Rifeh
Medium/Technique
Travertine (Egyptian alabaster)
Dimensions
Height x diameter: 6 x 5.3 cm (2 3/8 x 2 1/16 in.)
Credit Line
Egyptian Research Account by subscription
Accession Number07.1006b
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsAncient Egypt, Nubia and the Near East
ClassificationsTools and equipment – Cosmetic and medical
DescriptionThis kohl jar of travertine (Egyptian alabaster) is of generally squat proporitions with high shoulders, a flaring rim (with thinning profile), and a flat, splayed base. The rim is broken around the entire circumference. Some dark discolorations appear in the stone, and paint/grime appears particularly around the base.
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.
ProvenancePossibly from Deir Rifa. By 1907: with the Egyptian Research Account. 1907: Given to the MFA by the Egyptian Research Account.
(Accession Date: October 10, 1907)
(Accession Date: October 10, 1907)