Pre-dynastic Cosmetic Palette in Form of a Fish

Culture: Egyptian

Period: Naqada II period, 3500-3100 B.C.

Material: Green schist

Dimensions: 12.8 cm long

Price: Sold

Ref: 1182

Provenance: From the estate of the Viennese diplomat Dr. Balla, 1140 Vienna, acquired between 1960 and 1980.

Condition: Two small worn areas on the edge, on one side some flakings.

Description: Cosmetic palette of green schist in form of a fish. The fish tail is indicated by deep indentations, the eye is pierced. Another perforation on the back of the fish. Cosmetic palettes as the present model were used to grind malachite or galena to produce eye cosmetics. The present fish is the Nile fish Tilapia nilotica, the guarantee for revitalization and also a symbol for fertility.