Spherical Jar Inscribed with Hatshepsut's Titles as Queen
Unknown Artist
ca. 1492–1473 B.C.
Medium
Travertine (Egyptian alabaster)
Dimensions
H. 12.3 cm (4 13/16 in.); diam. 12.8 cm (5 1/16 in.)
Classification
Jar, spherical, Hatshepsut
Period
New Kingdom
Department
Egyptian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Rogers Fund, 1917
Accession Number
18.8.15
Tags
Art Historical Context
This delicate spherical jar, crafted from shimmering travertine—known as Egyptian alabaster—is a exquisite artifact from Egypt's New Kingdom, dating to around 1492–1473 B.C. during Dynasty 18. Standing just 12.3 cm tall a 12.8 cm diameter, it once likely held precious oils or cosmetics, a common use for such vessels in elite households. Its surface bears finely carved hieroglyphs inscribing the royal titles of Hatsheps, one of ancient Egypt's most remarkable female pharaohs, boldly assumed kingly authority during her reign. The choice of Egyptian alabaster highlights masterful ancient techniq...