Egypt, Third Intermediate Period, dynasties 21 though 25, ca. 1070 to 664 BCE. This pair of miniature vessels includes one carved from striated alabaster and another from a chalky white stone, likely alabaster or another form of calcite. Each jarlet features a centrally bored cavity, likely created using a bow drill or similar early rotary tool - techniques widely used in antiquity for precision carving in hard stone. These diminutive containers were likely intended to hold cosmetics such as kohl, a black eye cosmetic famously worn by both men and women in ancient Egyptian culture. Their careful workmanship and functional design reflect the sophisticated grooming practices and aesthetic values of the ancient world. Size of largest: 1.5" Diameter x 1.5" H (3.8 cm x 3.8 cm)

Provenance: private Thousand Oaks, California, USA collection, acquired 1970s to 2000s

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Item # 193769

  • Condition: Good. Minor nicks and chips to the surfaces, otherwise intact. Remains of mineral encrustations on the interior of the larger.

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by Artemis Fine Arts
June 25, 2026 9:00 AM MDT
686 S. Taylor Avenue
Suite 108
Louisville, CO, US 80027

Artemis Fine Arts

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