Ointment jar and cover

Middle Kingdom
ca. 1878–1749 B.C.
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 109
A light blue stone called anhydrite came into use during the 12th Dynasty. This vessel was recovered from a tomb containing two burials, including that of a woman. The ancient Egyptians used stone jars to store perfumed oils, ointments, and cosmetics, items considered essential in life and the afterlife, at least for those who could afford them.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Ointment jar and cover
  • Period: Middle Kingdom
  • Dynasty: late Dynasty 12–early Dynasty 13
  • Date: ca. 1878–1749 B.C.
  • Geography: From Egypt, Northern Upper Egypt, Abydos, Cemetery V, Tomb V21, Egypt Exploration Fund excavations, 1904
  • Medium: Anhydrite
  • Dimensions: H. 8.4 cm (3 5/16 in.); Diam. 6.3 cm (2 1/2 in.)
  • Credit Line: Gift of Egypt Exploration Fund, 1904
  • Object Number: 04.18.48a, b
  • Curatorial Department: Egyptian Art

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