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Lenticular palette
Egyptian
Early Dynastic Period, Dynasty 1
2960–2770 B.C.
Findspot: Egypt, Zawyet el-Aryan, Grave Z 218
Medium/Technique
Greywacke
Dimensions
Height x width x thickness: 13.3 x 7.9 x 0.8 cm (5 1/4 x 3 1/8 x 5/16 in.)
Credit Line
Harvard University—Boston Museum of Fine Arts Expedition
Accession Number11.2493
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsAncient Egypt, Nubia and the Near East
ClassificationsTools and equipment – Cosmetic and medical
DescriptionThis greywacke palette is roughly lenticular, possibly intended as a stylized fish shape. Once broken in two fragments, it has been mended. The smaller fragment is in more battered condition. The ends appear to have come to points, but have been chipped. A slight depressio in the surface may indicate 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 218. 1910-11: excavated by the Harvard University–Boston Museum of Fine Arts Expedition; assigned to the MFA in the division of finds by the government of Egypt.
(Accession date: October 19, 1911)
(Accession date: October 19, 1911)