cosmetic-jar
- Museum number
- EA20759
- Description
-
Anhydrite cosmetic-jar: this squat oval pot with sharply defined flat rim is made from a beautiful blue grey anhydrite, a characteristic material for cosmetic containers of Middle Kingdom date. Two vervet monkeys are carved in high relief seated at each side of the pot which they hug with outspread arms. Their heads, turned sharply to the right, are carved fully in three-dimensions to act as knoblike handles.
- Production date
- 1900BC-1800BC (circa)
- Dimensions
-
Diameter: 7 centimetres
-
Height: 4.40 centimetres
-
Weight: 154 grammes
- Curator's comments
- The narrow aperture of the mouth shows the piece was intended to hold eye paint. Since the application of cosmetics had a sensual and erotic connotation for the Egyptians, it is not surprising that monkeys were often depicted on cosmetic containers for they themselves were symbolic of love and sexual fulfillment.
Bibliography:
'Egyptian Treasures' [exhibition catalogue] (Shanghai, 1999), 244-245 No 74.
- Location
- Not on display
- Condition
- good
- Acquisition date
- 1888
- Department
- Egypt and Sudan
- BM/Big number
- EA20759
- Registration number
- 1888,0512.68
