Bottom of an ovular tan dish shaped as a fish. The left side of the bowl forms the head, with engraving on the surface highlighting the fish’s face and fins.
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Unknown Maker, Egyptian

Cosmetic Dish

Maker

Unknown Maker, Egyptian

Culture

Egyptian

Title

Cosmetic Dish

Period

New Kingdom

Year

around 1307-1070 BCE

Medium

Materials/Techniques

Techniques

Materials

Egyptian alabaster

Dimensions

2.4 x 7.3 cm (15/16 x 2 7/8 inches)

Credit / Object Number

Credit

Bequest of Lyra Brown Nickerson

Object Number

16.205

Type

Exhibition History

Being and Believing in the Natural World
Perspectives from the Ancient Mediterranean, Asia, and Indigenous North America
Oct 22, 2022 – Jun 04, 2023

Label copy

Skillfully worked jade objects, such as the knife and disc in the case at left, have been found in elite tombs in China. Thousands of years ago, they likely held ceremonial meaning. Vibrant stones like malachite, said to capture the luminosity of the sun and moon, were also treasured in China. 

Ancient Greeks loved gold jewelry, often incorporating plant and animal motifs in their designs. They also transformed readily available materials into glass beads for necklaces. 

Since ancient times, Indigenous people in what is now the Southwest US have mined turquoise. Diné people believe turquoise provides spiritual protection. 

—WC | GB | SB

Image use

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Public Domain This object is in the Public Domain and available under a CC0 1.0 Universal (CC0 1.0) Public Domain Dedication

Tombstone

Unknown Maker, Egyptian
Cosmetic Dish, around 1307-1070 BCE
Calcite (also known as Egyptian alabaster)
2.4 x 7.3 cm (15/16 x 2 7/8 inches)
Bequest of Lyra Brown Nickerson 16.205

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