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Rectangular palette
Egyptian
Early Dynastic Period, Dynasty 0
3100–2960 B.C.
Findspot: Egypt, Mesaid, Tomb 231
Medium/Technique
Greywacke
Dimensions
Height x width: 13.4 x 7.9 cm (5 1/4 x 3 1/8 in.)
Credit Line
Harvard University—Boston Museum of Fine Arts Expedition
Accession Number11.213
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsAncient Egypt, Nubia and the Near East
ClassificationsTools and equipment – Cosmetic and medical
DescriptionThis greywacke palette is generally rectangular with slightly convex edges. Incised double lines create a border around the perimeter with two additional incised chevrons on the short sides. Traces of green malachite powder remain in the center, indicating use. There are some spots with mild staining. The palette is intact.
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 Mesaid [Mesa'eed] tomb 231, no. 8 [M/231/8]. 1910: Excavated by the Harvard University–Museum of Fine Arts Expedition; assigned to the MFA by the government of Egypt.
(Accession Date: March 2, 1911)
(Accession Date: March 2, 1911)