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Cosmetic Vessel (Beaker) — Anonymous, reign of Amenemhat III (1860–1814 BCE)

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Written by: Daniel VolkovContributing Writer · Furniture & Decorative Arts
Antiquities · Catalogue no. 14812
Anonymous, reign of Amenemhat III (1860–1814 BCE)

Cosmetic Vessel (Beaker)

StatusReference work · Not for sale
Held byCleveland Museum of Art
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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.

Artist / MakerAnonymous, reign of Amenemhat III (1860–1814 BCE)
Datec. 1859–1814 BCE
Culture / OriginEgypt, Middle Kingdom (2040–1648 BCE), Dynasty 12, reign of Amenemhat III (1860–1814 BCE)
Mediumobsidian and gold
DimensionsDiameter: 4.2 cm (1 5/8 in.); Overall: 4.9 cm (1 15/16 in.); Diameter of base: 2.6 cm (1 in.)
DepartmentEgyptian and Ancient Near Eastern Art
TypeVessels
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Provenance & Source

Image & data: Cleveland Museum of Art, CC0 / Public Domain.

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