An Egyptian Pre-Dynastic Granite Vessel, Pre Dynastic - Pro Dynastic Period, ca. 3200 - 2800 BCE

An elegant and finely carved Egyptian stone vessel, fashioned from variegated gray granite with prominent black veining. The body is ovoid with a gently tapering profile, terminating in a flattened base. The shoulder is rounded and surmounted by a wide, flat-rimmed mouth that exhibits subtle tooling marks.

Two pronounced lug handles are symmetrically placed at midbody, each perforated laterally for suspension or securing a lid. The interior is carefully hollowed, with concentric drill marks visible, indicative of early stone-working techniques that employed copper drills and abrasive sand. This form and workmanship are consistent with high-status grave goods of the late Naqada III to early Dynastic period. 

Medium: Granite

Dimensions: Height: 3 in (7.62 cm) × Width: 3.5 in (8.89 cm)

Condition: The surface exhibits a fine, smooth ancient patina with attractive mineral deposits and surface variegation from burial. Minor edge chipping to the rim has been professionally restored; otherwise intact and in excellent condition. A well-balanced and highly attractive example of early Egyptian lapidary craft.

Provenance:  H.W. Schafthausen private collection, Switzerland, acquired before 1980, thereafter private New England collection.