Advanced Search 
Red polished beaker
Nubian
Classic Kerma
about 1700–1550 B.C.
Findspot: Nubia (Sudan), Kerma, Cemetery S, Tumulus III, K 334
Medium/Technique
Pottery
Dimensions
Overall: 12 x 11.7 cm (4 3/4 x 4 5/8 in.)
Credit Line
Harvard University—Boston Museum of Fine Arts Expedition
Accession Number20.3245
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsAncient Egypt, Nubia and the Near East
ClassificationsVessels
DescriptionThis bell-shaped (or ‘tulip’) beaker is made of red polished ware. The shape is characteristic of the classic phase of Kerma pottery, of which the majority of such beakers are black-topped and red polished. The red surface was created by application of ochre prior to firing in an oxidizing atmosphere and polishing with smooth stones/pebbles. The beaker's walls a thin. The sides are not straight, but are ribbed with four grooves that may be indicatative of forming by a coil method.
ProvenanceFrom Kerma, Cemetery S, Tumulus III, grave 334. 1914: excavated by the Harvard University–Boston Museum of Fine Arts Expedition; assigned to the MFA in the division of finds by the government of the Sudan.
(Accession date: June 27, 2006)
(Accession date: June 27, 2006)