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Black-topped red polished beaker
Nubian
Classic Kerma
about 1700–1550 B.C.
Object Place: Egypt
Medium/Technique
Pottery
Dimensions
Height: 11.5 cm (4 1/2 in.)
Credit Line
Harvard University—Boston Museum of Fine Arts Expedition
Accession Number20.2122
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsAncient Egypt, Nubia and the Near East
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)
(Accession Date: December 4, 1913)
ProvenanceFrom Kerma, tomb K 439. Excavated by the Harvard University-Museum of Fine Arts Expedition and assigned to the MFA by the Sudanese government.