Egyptian Breccia Kohl Vessel

An ancient Egyptian miniature breccia kohl vessel of ovoid form with raised rim and flattened bottom.

Middle Kingdom.
Ca. 2040 - 1782 BC.
Height: 1 1/4 in (3 cm).

Black galena (lead sulfide) based kohl (Egyptian: mesmedet) was not only used for beauty but also for religious, symbolic, and practical reasons as it worked as a natural disinfectant and protected the eyes from the bright sunlight.

Formerly in the Monnier collection, Paris, 1960s; Tajan auction, Paris, 1996; subsequently in the Jerome Eisenberg collection, New York.
Inv#: 9596
Guaranteed Authentic

$2,500

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