Cosmetic Vessel (Beaker)
Unknown Artist
c. 1859–1814 BCE
Medium
obsidian and gold
Dimensions
h. 4.9 cm · diam. 4.2 cm
Classification
Vessels
Department
Egyptian and Ancient Near Eastern Art
Museum
Cleveland Museum of Art
Credit
Leonard C. Hanna Jr. Fund
Accession Number
1985.107
About this artwork
Both ancient Egyptian men and women loved cosmetics. Unguents, oils, and perfumes made from aromatic plant resins and gums were obtained at great cost from distant lands. The objects identified with cosmetics were given lavish treatment. This luxurious obsidian and gold beaker hints at the precious contents it once held.