An elegant Egyptian Anhydrite Kohl Vessel, Middle Kingdom, XII Dynasty, not after 1786 BCE

This exceptional hand-carved cosmetic vessel exemplifies the functional elegance of Middle Kingdom Egyptian stonework. Fashioned from anhydrite, a rare, hard stone valued for its cool bluish-gray tone, and the skill needed to shape it, the vessel features a compact, ovoid form with smooth convex walls, a rounded shoulder, and a flat base.  On one side, the surface displays natural banding and veining in warm brown and cream tones, creating a striking visual contrast against the dominant pale blue-gray. These color variations are inherent to anhydrite and make each vessel unique.

Such vessels were designed to hold galena (kohl), a lead ore used as eye makeup by both men and women. The wide mouth is designed to fit an applicator comfortably, while the proportions are optimized to neatly fit the hand. Vessels such as this example were highly prized during the Middle Kingdom for their aesthetic appeal, balanced, harmonious design, and symbolic associations with purity. They have been excavated in elite tombs and temple deposits, underscoring their connection to personal adornment, ritual practices, and social status.

Medium: Anhydrite

Dimensions:  Height: 1.875 inches (4.8 cm); Width: 2.125 inches (5.4 cm)

Condition: The vessel is intact and in very good condition overall, with no evidence of breaks or modern repairs. A shallow circumferential groove is present around the mouth, likely indicating the former presence of a fitted lid.

Provenance:  Thilo and Izora Steinschulte private collection, VA, acquired in 1978 from Charles Ede, Ltd., London, reference E6944, then by descent. Accompanied by a copy of the original collector's paperwork.