Advanced Search
Advanced Search

Black-topped red polished beaker

Nubian
Classic Kerma
about 1700–1550 B.C.
Findspot: Nubia (Sudan), Kerma, K 1066:14

Medium/Technique Pottery
Dimensions Height: 7.7 cm (3 1/16 in.)
Credit Line Harvard University—Boston Museum of Fine Arts Expedition
Accession Number13.4092
NOT ON VIEW
ClassificationsVessels

DescriptionThis bell-shaped (or ‘tulip’) beaker is of a type characteristic of the classic phase of Kerma pottery. The red surface was created by application of ochre prior to firing in an oxidizing atmosphere and polishing with smooth stones/pebbles. The black top was attained by turning the beaker over to place the upper portion in an oxygen-reduced atmosphere of burning organics/ash.

(Accession Date: December 4, 1913)
ProvenanceFrom Kerma. 1913: excavated by the Harvard University–Boston Museum of Fine Arts Expedition; assigned to the MFA in the division of finds by the government of Sudan.

(Accession date: December 4, 1913)