Two-Handled Ointment Jar

AI image analysis claude-haiku-4-5

Machine-generated from the object's image on May 2026. Not curatorial; treat deities, names, and signs below as the model's best reading, not authority.

A two-handled ointment jar crafted from pale cream-colored alabaster (travertine), featuring a bulbous body with a narrower cylindrical neck and everted rim, with two short cylindrical handles positioned symmetrically on the body.

This vessel exemplifies the classic New Kingdom form of an ointment or cosmetic jar. The piece is executed in fine crystalline travertine (Egyptian alabaster) with a cream to pale buff coloration and subtle banding visible on the surface. The form consists of a full, rounded bulbous body that tapers smoothly to a narrower, straight-sided cylindrical neck with a distinctive everted or flared rim at the mouth. Two short cylindrical handles are positioned on either side of the body, set just below the junction with the neck. The overall composition demonstrates excellent proportional balance and refined craftsmanship typical of New Kingdom luxury vessels. The surface shows the characteristic translucence and subtle stone texture of high-quality travertine. The rim area shows some minor weathering or damage consistent with an ancient object.