Biconical alabastron with zones of bichrome decoration including floral elements, dancers, and Bes-like figures

Ptolemaic Period

332–30 B.C.

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 134

The rim is broken away, but the body decoration is preserved. Registers of garlands, a vine (?) pattern, and rosettes, are followed by two figural registers. The upper registers depicts figures with shoulder length hair curled up at the rear and wearing long flowing garments. They appear to be dancing or running. The lower figural register depicts figures with feathers, broad faces, and tails - apparently Bes-images. Some figures are running, others are gathered around a vessel on a stand on one side, and on the other what appears to be a cauldron or stove. Beneath the figural registers the body of the vessels is covered with a weave pattern.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Title: Biconical alabastron with zones of bichrome decoration including floral elements, dancers, and Bes-like figures
Period: Ptolemaic Period
Date: 332–30 B.C.
Geography: From Egypt; Possibly from Western Delta, Naukratis
Medium: Faience
Dimensions: H. 11.8 × Greatest diam. 3.1 cm (4 5/8 × 1 1/4 in.)
Credit Line: Purchase, Fletcher Fund and The Guide Foundation Inc. Gift, 1966
Object Number: 66.99.70
Curatorial Department: Egyptian Art

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