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Shield-shaped palette with double bird head motif
Egyptian
Predynastic Period
Naqada II–III, 3650–2960 B.C.
Medium/Technique
Greywacke
Dimensions
Height x width x thickness: 23.5 x 9.5 x 0.9 cm (9 1/4 x 3 3/4 x 5/16 in.)
Credit Line
Emily Esther Sears Fund
Accession Number03.1489
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsAncient Egypt, Nubia and the Near East
ClassificationsTools and equipment – Cosmetic and medical
DescriptionThis shield-shaped (scutiform) palette of greywacke is carved with a double bird head motif at top. A protrusion between the heads would normally be expected to have a suspension hole, which is absent on this piece. A fragment of one bird head has broken away. A large fragment is also missing from one side, though it appears the remaining edges may have been reworked. One face has a slight depression, and the surface of both faces is splattered with a dark susbstance.
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.
ProvenanceSaid to be from Naqada. 1903: purchased for the MFA from Mohamed Mohassib, Luxor, Egypt by Albert M. Lythgoe as part of a group (03.1474-03.1490) for £4. Acquired with funds from the Emily Esther Sears Fund. (Accession Date: January 1, 1903)