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Shield-shaped palette
Egyptian
Early Dynastic Period, Dynasty 1
2960–2770 B.C.
Findspot: Egypt, Deir el-Ballas, Tomb 154
Medium/Technique
Greywacke
Dimensions
Height x width x thickness: 12.5 x 8 x 0.7 cm (4 15/16 x 3 1/8 x 1/4 in.)
Credit Line
Brought from Harvard Camp
Accession Number47.1635
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsAncient Egypt, Nubia and the Near East
ClassificationsTools and equipment – Cosmetic and medical
DescriptionThis shield-shaped (scutiform) palette of light gray greywacke has incised notches decorating its outer edge on one side forming a triangular chevron pattern. There are slight traces of use. The palette is in excellent condition.
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 Ballas, Tomb B 154. 1900-1901: excavated by George A. Reisner for the Hearst Egyptian Expedition of the University of California (which became the Harvard University-Museum of Fine Arts Expedition in 1905); by 1947: at Harvard Camp, Giza; 1947: shipped to the MFA from Harvard Camp.
(Accession Date: January 1, 1947)
(Accession Date: January 1, 1947)