Artwork Page for Vessel in the Form of an Ostrich Egg

Details / Information for Vessel in the Form of an Ostrich Egg

Vessel in the Form of an Ostrich Egg

c. 1540–1296 BCE

Egypt, New Kingdom (1540–1069 BCE), Dynasty 18

Medium
travertine
Measurements
Diameter: 8.2 cm (3 1/4 in.); Diameter of mouth: 3.5 cm (1 3/8 in.); Overall: 8.6 cm (3 3/8 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of the John Huntington Art and Polytechnic Trust 1914.620
Public Domain
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Location
107 Egyptian
Print

Description

Both ancient Egyptian men and women loved cosmetics. Unguents, oils, and perfumes made from aromatic plant resins and gums were obtained at great cost from distant lands. The objects identified with cosmetics were given lavish treatment. Here the fanciful form is an ostrich egg.
A travertine vessel resembles a smooth, upright ostrich egg. The polished stone is a warm cream color, marked by horizontal, milky white bands that wrap around its middle. At the top, a small, circular opening is finished with a subtly raised, rounded rim. Light reflects off the upper right curve, highlighting its translucent surface, while the vessel's base sits softly in shadow against the dark background.

Vessel in the Form of an Ostrich Egg

c. 1540–1296 BCE

Egypt, New Kingdom (1540–1069 BCE), Dynasty 18

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