Egyptian Alabaster Alabastron w/ Cartouche

**Originally Listed At $2000**

Ancient Egypt, Late Dynastic Period, 26th to 31st Dynasty, ca. 664 to 332 BCE. A well preserved alabastron, meticulously hand-carved from banded alabaster in a classic drop form with twin lug handles to either side, a narrow neck, and flat rim. A magnificent cartouche is incised on one side of the vessel between the lug handles. Such vessels would have held precious scented oils or cosmetics for women to use after bathing as indicated by scenes on ancient vases depicting them in use. The narrow mouth prevented evaporation, while the wide rim was designed to catch every drop of precious liquid. Size: 2.625" in diameter x 6.25" H (6.7 cm x 15.9 cm); 6.625" H (16.8 cm) on included custom stand.

The cartouche reads in part "Maat Re…" - 'Maat' referring to concepts such as harmony, truth, order, balance, and law - 'Re' referring to the creator god or god of the sun.

Provenance: private East Coast, USA collection; ex-Dr. Sid Port collection, California, USA, acquired in the 1980s

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

We ship worldwide to most countries and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

#146897
Condition Report: Minute nicks to rim and handles. Slight surface wear with expected scuffs and abrasions, but generally quite impressive. Cartouche is vivid. Mineral deposits here and there. Beautiful banding really comes through when held to the light.