Artwork Page for Cosmetic Vessel

Details / Information for Cosmetic Vessel

Cosmetic Vessel

c. 1980–1901 BCE

Egypt, Middle Kingdom (2040–1648 BCE), Dynasty 12

Medium
anhydrite
Measurements
Diameter: 7 cm (2 3/4 in.); Overall: 6.8 cm (2 11/16 in.)
Credit Line
Edwin R. and Harriet Pelton Perkins Memorial Fund 1982.3
Public Domain
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Location
107 Egyptian
Print

Description

Cosmetic vessels would have once contained scented oils or ointments used for beautifying the body, while kohl containers held the eye paint seen in many depictions of ancient Egyptians. Galena, a mineral used in eye paint, helped reflect the sun and repelled insects and tiny organisms that could cause eye disease and blindness. Cosmetics were an essential element of daily life and associated with upholding the ancient Egyptians’ high standards of cleanliness.
A squat, polished anhydrite vessel swells into a globular body, its pale blue-gray surface marbled by swirling veins of tan and cream. A short neck supports a wide, flat, disk-like rim pierced by a small circular opening. Near the top right, a dark brown crack juts vertically. The smooth stone curves downward, meeting a narrow base to create a heavy, rounded silhouette.

Cosmetic Vessel

c. 1980–1901 BCE

Egypt, Middle Kingdom (2040–1648 BCE), Dynasty 12

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