Egyptian art / relief sculpture - Double sided replica cosmetic palette 3500 - 3000 B.C.E

Egyptian cosmetic palette.

Dimensions : -

Height - 31 cm / 12-1/4 inches

Width - 17.5 cm - 6-3/4 inches

Depth - 12 cm / 4-3/4 inches


On offer here is a rare replica of the 'four dogs' cosmetic palette, also known as the 'giraffe palette' that originated from the late fourth millennium B.C.E. ( 3500 - 3000 B.C.E)

Made of a limestone and quartzite composition stone, it has the look and feel of the original slate stone palette with no artificial resins in use thus achieving a pleasing, authentic replica.

Background information

The cosmetic palette was an item in use throughout Egyptian history and prior to it. They are indeed an ancient piece of equipment that were in use before the first Pharaoh's in the pre-dynastic period.

A circular depression carved in the center would host ochre pigments or lamp black and charcoals that would be ground and mixed with animal fat to create some of the worlds earliest make up.

The more elaborate designs in use leading up to the dawn of the Pharaoh's suggest an ever increasing confidence and mastery over the natural world. Usual scenes include hunting, battles won,or commemorative sightings of rare animals.

Here is just such an example in the 'four dogs' palette showing a snapshot of ancient animal life along the Nile valley.

A sense of balance and symmetry in the design can be interpreted as an early form of 'Maat' - order amidst the chaos, when noting the positions of the encircling canines. Maat was a state of being desired by all Egyptians.

An ibis, a Chimera and two giraffes are shown on this palette. Giraffes were once native to northern Africa during this period but were definitely on the way out when this palette was made.

Cosmetic palettes would be included in the richest pre-dynastic burials. Most of the palettes have been found in Hierakonpolis, the cradle of Pharaonic civilisation.

A truly unusual and rare piece with tremendous symbolic and historical significance.

*As each item is handmade, slight colour variations may occur.