Cosmetics jar

The Egyptians always devoted considerable attention to their appearance, from prehistoric times onwards. They lavished care on cosmetic products and on the objects with which these were prepared. This small cosmetics jar is borne by the figurine of a nude girl. Judging by her facial features, she is Nubian. The torsion of her body is remarkably lively. This motif is inconceivable in the Egyptian tradition of monumental sculpture in stone, which placed far greater emphasis on strict symmetry and the frontal view. Remains of blue paint are still discernible in the jar’s petal decorations. Site unknown; c. 1400-1300 BC (18th Dynasty).