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Shield-shaped palette with crenellated top
Egyptian
Predynastic Period, Naqada III–Dynasty 0
3300–2960 B.C.
Medium/Technique
Greywacke
Dimensions
Height x width x thickness: 20.5 x 9 x 0.7 cm (8 1/16 x 3 9/16 x 1/4 in.)
Credit Line
Emily Esther Sears Fund
Accession Number03.1486
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsAncient Egypt, Nubia and the Near East
ClassificationsTools and equipment – Cosmetic and medical
DescriptionThis is a shield-shaped (scutiform) palette of greywacke. It has been given a crenellated top edge (six teeth) with drilled suspension hole immediately below. Its bottom edge is slightly rounded. One face is slightly worn, possibly indicating use. It is in excellent condition.
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.
ProvenanceSaid to be from Naqada. 1903: purchased for the MFA from Mohamed Mohassib, Luxor, Egypt by Albert M. Lythgoe as part of a group (03.1474-03.1490) for £4. Acquired with funds from the Emily Esther Sears Fund. (Accession Date: January 1, 1903)