Advanced Search 
Disc-shaped palette
Egyptian
Early Dynastic Period, Dynasty 1
2960–2770 B.C.
Findspot: Egypt, Zawyet el-Aryan, Grave Z 144
Medium/Technique
Greywacke
Dimensions
Diameter x thickness: 11.2 x 0.6 cm (4 7/16 x 1/4 in.)
Credit Line
Harvard University—Boston Museum of Fine Arts Expedition
Accession Number11.2492
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsAncient Egypt, Nubia and the Near East
ClassificationsTools and equipment – Cosmetic and medical
DescriptionThis is a disc-shaped palette of greywacke. It is decorated with notches around the outer edge, creating a chevron design. No hole for suspension has been drilled. There are two notable chips in the outer edge. The surface of the stone shows significant scratching/scuffing, and some areas are uneven.
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 Zawyet el-Aryan, Grave Z 144. 1910-11: excavated by the Harvard University–Boston Museum of Fine Arts Expedition; assigned to the MFA in the division of finds by the government of Egypt.
(Accession date: October 19, 1911)
(Accession date: October 19, 1911)