An Egyptian anhydrite jar kohl jar, with a broad disc rim and shoulders, the body tapering towards the narrowed, slightly out-turned foot.
 
Middle Kingdom: Circa 2000-1800 BC.
 
Very Fine condition; small chip to foot; a few light accretions.
Height 4.7 cms (1.85 ins).
 
Provenance: Previously with Kallos Gallery, London. From an American private collection, Massachusetts, formed in the 1960s-1970s
 
For similar see item 334: Les Objets de Toilette Egyptiens Au Musee Du Louvre: J. Vandier d'Abbadie
 
The Egyptians stored cosmetics (kohl) in squat containers usually made from stone. A kohl pot's specialised function required a certain shape: broad, low proportions that fit in the palm of the hand, and an opening wide enough to allow the insertion of an applicator. The shape remained consistent and most such vessels were made of alabaster, but the Egyptian craftsmen also used different coloured materials to achieve variety.
 
A similar example in anhydrite can be seen in the Brooklyn Museum, acc. no. 07.447.206