An Egyptian Greywacke Cosmetic Palette in the Form of a Bird, Pre-Dynastic Period, Naqada II, ca. 3500 - 3300 BCE

Used to grind mineral pigments, this greywacke palette takes the form of a bird with a wide, ellipsoid body, elongated neck, and bent head, both sides showing wear from ample use in antiquity, a suspension hole drilled through the top. Palettes such as this example were used as surfaces on which to grind green or black pigments into powder. After adding a gum-like adhesive to the powder, the mixture was applied as eye makeup. Many take the shape of an animal as palettes were personal items, and the ancient Egyptians wanted to reflect the traits and symbols of their chosen animal. cf. Petrie, Corpus of Slate Palettes, Pl. LIII, no. 24D Medium: Greywacke Dimensions: Length: 8 7/8 inches (22.54 cm). Condition: The main area of the body shows signs of use, with slight losses to the edges that do not detract. Overall, this is a large and impressive palette in very good condition for its age and type.  Presented on a museum-quality custom mount.Provenance: Thomas Collingwood, Philadelphia, a