Egyptian Banded Alabaster Firestarter Fragment

Egypt, Late Dynastic Period, 26th to 31st Dynasty, ca. 664 to 332 BCE. A lovely fragment of a firestarter or a cylindrical vessel, hand-carved from honey-yellow alabaster with natural banding in opaque white and caramel hues. The squat fragment has flared upper and lower rims, a corseted midsection, and a petite conical recess centered on the top face. The petite cavity was perhaps used as a firestarter by placing kindling inside and creating friction with a bow drill; however, it is also possible that it was intended to be a cylindrical vase based on the smooth contours surrounding the center. Size: 4.375" W x 5.125" H (11.1 cm x 13 cm)

Provenance: private J.H. collection, Beaverton, Oregon, USA, acquired around 2014

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#150647
Condition Report: This is a fragment of a larger alabaster sculpture. Nicks and abrasions to base, body, and top, with light encrustations. Nice earthen deposits throughout.