Three fragments of Charcoal
Unknown Artist
ca. 1479–1458 B.C.
Medium
charcoal
Dimensions
L. 7 cm (2 3/4 in)
Classification
charcoal, 3 fragments
Period
New Kingdom
Department
Egyptian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Rogers Fund and Edward S. Harkness Gift, 1922
Accession Number
22.3.260a–c
Art Historical Context
These three small fragments of charcoal, dating to Dynasty 18 of Egypt’s New Kingdom (ca. 1479–1458 B.C.), offer a rare glimpse into the materials used by ancient Egyptian artisans. Created during a period of artistic renewal and imperial expansion, such everyday substances were essential to the vibrant wall paintings, reliefs, and tomb decorations that defined the era. Though modest in size—each measuring just seven centimeters—the fragments survive as tangible evidence of the creative processes behind the grand monuments of the time. Charcoal served multiple practical roles in Egyptian work...