1st-2nd Dynasty, 3rd millennium BC. A black and white speckled diorite vase with thin, rolled rim; body tapering sharply to a small flat base. 373 grams, 12cm (4 3/4"). Property of a Connecticut, USA, collector; formerly in the collection of E.K., Yew York City, USA; acquired prior to 1980. Stone vessels of the Old Kingdom are luxury items that owe their beauty to skilled craftsmanship and an exquisite sense of refinement in design and decoration. The art of stone-vessel making goes back to the beginning of Egyptian history and since the fifth millennium BC, long before stone was used for building and statuary, vessels had been fashioned from hard stones. Stone vessels served various purposes in the life and afterlife of ancient Egyptians and three groups can be distinguished among the Old Kingdom vessels. These are cosmetic oil and ointment vases, many inscribed with the names and titles of kings; imitations in stone of terracotta utilitarian vessels, and miniature vases. These last two seem to have a ritual function and were possibly used in temples as well as funerary rituals.

Fine condition, repaired.