Ancient Egypt, Middle Kingdom, 11th to 12th Dynasty, ca. 2030 to 1650 BCE. A pretty and petite schist stone cosmetic palette with a shallow basin. The dish rests on a flat base and the sides swell gently outward and the interior basin is slightly concave. The simple design is ideal for holding cosmetics such as kohl; an elaborate overhanging rim or deep interior would hinder application. Around the rim are four tabs, perhaps to act as suspension lugs. Palettes like this one were used by the Egyptians to make cosmetics for eye paint and eye protection. They are often made for temple ceremonies where priests would apply makeup to images of deities. Size: 0.375" L x 2.25" W (1 cm x 5.7 cm)

Provenance: private Corpus Christi, Texas, USA estate collection, acquired 1960s to 1970s

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#165088

Chips and loss to rim and lugs, otherwise intact and very good. Old inventory labels on base. Nice smooth texture.