Undecorated Kohl Jar with Lid
ca. 1539-1292 B.C.E.
Maker Unknown
Egyptian, Classical, Ancient Near Eastern Art
Kohl, still in use in parts of the world today, was a black eyeliner worn by both men and women in ancient Egypt. It had multiple purposes—highlighting the eyes, reducing the glare of the sun, and repelling flies. When used as a cosmetic, kohl made the wearer more sexually attractive. Explicitly linked to physical conception in the tomb, kohl helped an Egyptian to be reborn.
- Maker/Artist
- Maker Unknown
- Classification
- Vessel
- Formatted Medium
- Faience
- Medium
- faience
- Locations
- Place excavated: Sawama, Egypt
- Dynasty
- Dynasty 18
- Period
- New Kingdom
- Dimensions
- 1 3/4 x 1 7/8 in. (4.5 x 4.8 cm)
- Accession Number
- 14.609a-b
- Credit Line
- Gift of the Egypt Exploration Fund
- Exhibitions
- A Woman's Afterlife: Gender Transformation in Ancient Egypt, Egypt Reborn: Art for Eternity
- Rights Statement
- Creative Commons-BY
- Museum Location
- Special Exhibitions, Egyptian Galleries, 3rd Floor
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