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Cosmetic Vessel in the Shape of a Cat

Middle Kingdom
ca. 1990–1900 B.C.
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 111
The cat first appears in painting and relief at the end of the Old Kingdom, and this cosmetic jar is the earliest-known three-dimensional representation of the animal in Egyptian art. The sculptor demonstrates a keen understanding of the creature's physical traits, giving the animal the alert, tense look of a hunter rather than the elegant aloofness seen in later representations. The rock-crystal eyes, lined with copper, enhance the impression of readiness.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Cosmetic Vessel in the Shape of a Cat
  • Period: Middle Kingdom
  • Dynasty: Dynasty 12, early
  • Date: ca. 1990–1900 B.C.
  • Geography: From Egypt
  • Medium: Travertine (Egyptian alabaster), copper, quartz crystal, paint
  • Dimensions: h. 14 (5 1/2 in.); l. 13.7 cm (5 3/8 in.); w. 6.2 cm (2 7/16 in.)
  • Credit Line: Purchase, Lila Acheson Wallace Gift, 1990
  • Object Number: 1990.59.1
  • Curatorial Department: Egyptian Art

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