Stone slab with seven holes for cosmetic ointments, Egypt, 1991-1786 BCE

Made:
1991-1786 BCE in Egypt
Aragonite slab with 7 holes for cosmetic ointments

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Aragonite slab with 7 holes for cosmetic ointments
Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Aragonite slab with 7 holes for cosmetic ointments, each labelled in hieroglyphics, Egyptian, 1991BC-1786BC

The Egyptians wore extensive facial makeup. We know this through Egyptian artworks and artefacts. Makeup was often a mixture of minerals and plant-based ingredients. This aragonite slab was used in Egypt nearly 4000 years ago. It contains seven separate wells to hold cosmetic ointments. Each hollow is labelled with the name of the cosmetic ointment in hieroglyphics, now partially worn away. The wearing on the slab suggests the equipment was extensively used by a right-handed person.

Details

Category:
Classical & Medieval Medicine
Collection:
Sir Henry Wellcome's Museum Collection
Object Number:
A634883
Materials:
aragonite and incomplete
Measurements:
overall: 17 mm x 198 mm x 84 mm, 0.534 kg
type:
ointment slab
credit:
Sotheby's