Jar with Suspension Handles

Place of OriginEgypt

DatePredynastic Period (4000-3200 BCE)

DimensionsH: 4 7/8 in. (12.4 cm); Diam: 3 5/8 in. (9.2 cm); Rim Diam: 2 1/4 in. (5.7 cm); Base Diam: 1 1/2 in. (3.8 cm).

MediumBituminous limestone

ClassificationSculpture

Credit LinePurchased with funds from the Libbey Endowment, Gift of Edward Drummond Libbey

Object number

1972.13

On View

Toledo Museum of Art (2445 Monroe Street), Gallery, 02, Classic

DescriptionA small, convex stone jar with a slightly flared lip and two roll-shaped handles on the shoulder, pierced for suspension. The surface is polished, with visible nicks and a restored section on the lip.

Label TextThis finely crafted Predynastic Egyptian jar dates to between 4000 and 3200 BCE, a period of increasing technological and artistic sophistication in the Nile Valley. Made of bituminous limestone, the vessel features a polished surface, a slightly flared lip, and two pierced roll-shaped handles, suggesting it may have been suspended or carried with a cord.