Wavy-handled jar

This jar is an example of a classic form of Predynastic pottery known as wavy-handled ware. The style is based on a specialized container for liquid products that was originally made in the Levant and imported into Egypt around 3500 B.C. Ancient Egyptian potters, using a local ware made from marl clay, subsequently began producing their own versions by adding wavy handles to some of their containers. Over time, the pair of wavy-handles became one continuous scalloped band seen in 99.4.66. Eventually, this decorative style became a simple band like the decoration on 12.187.4.

A flat blade and some kind of scraper, which were used to finish the vessel’s surface during manufacture, have both left distinct tool marks that are still visible today. Although we do not know what this jar contained, others of similar type held fat-based substances.