Inscribed Ointment Jar From Foundation Deposit 2 of Hatshepsut's Valley Temple
Unknown Artist
ca. 1479–1458 B.C.
Medium
Travertine (Egyptian alabaster), linen
Dimensions
h. 10.5 cm (4 1/8 in)
Classification
Jar, ointment
Period
New Kingdom
Department
Egyptian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Rogers Fund, 1916
Accession Number
16.10.481
Art Historical Context
This delicate inscribed ointment jar, unearthed from Foundation Deposit 2 at Hatshepsut's Temple, offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient Egyptian royal rituals. Dating to around 1479–1458 B.C. during Dynasty 18 of the New, it comes from the reign of Hatshepsut, one of Egypt's most powerful female pharaohs. Foundation deposits like this were ritually buried beneath temple corners to ensure divine protection and prosperity for the structure—small treasures symbolizing the king's eternal bond with the gods. Crafted from travertine, known as Egyptian alabaster for its creamy translucency and s...