Title:
Ivory Unguent Box of Queen Nefertari
Caption:
Ivory Unguent Box of Queen Nefertari. Dimensions: H. 3 cm (1 3/16 in); Diam. 5 cm (1 15/16 in); Greatest W. 6.4 cm (2 1/2 in.). Dynasty: Dynasty 19. Reign: reign of Ramesses II. Date: ca. 1279-1213 BC.
This lenticular box with a sharp shoulder and flat swivel lid sits on a cylindrical foot. Around the outer edge of the lid and on one of the flat surfaces for the knobs used to close the container are incised circles. The tiny figure of a hedgehog, associated with the cycle of death and rebirth, sits in front of the other knob. On the lid are the cartouches of Ramesses II and his first principal wife, Nefertari. The purpose of the box is uncertain, but it was likely used for cosmetics.
Technique/material:
Hippopotamus ivory, rosewood
Period:
New Kingdom, Ramesside
Museum:
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, USA
Credit:
Album / Metropolitan Museum of Art, NY
Image size:
4192 x 3420 px | 41.0 MB
Print size:
35.5 x 29.0 cm | 14.0 x 11.4 in (300 dpi)
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