|
HOME :
Egyptian Antiquities :
Predynastic Period : An Egyptian Pre-Dynastic Pottery Vessel, Naqada II
|
 |
|
|
|
An Egyptian Pre-Dynastic Pottery Vessel, Naqada II - SK.027
Origin: Egypt
Circa: 3400
BC
to 3200
BC
Dimensions:
6.25" (15.9cm) high
Collection: Egyptian
Medium: Terracotta
Location: UAE
|
|
|
| Description |
|
Naqada is a town on the west bank of the Nile
known as Nubt in ancient Egypt. It gave its name
to a pre-dynastic culture that existed in this area
and other sites, stretching as far south as Nubia.
Archaeologists sub-divide the period even
further and ‘Naqada II’ refers to items produced
c. 3500-3100 BC. During this era (also known as
‘Gerzean’) pottery production increased
considerably and innovations in form, colour and
technique were introduced. This reflects the
increasingly complexity of society and new
socio-economic conditions, such as intensified
trade with groups from Western Asia. Farming
became more intense and although hunting was
still important, the lifestyle became more
sedentary. The pottery produced in this period is
characterised by the use of a pale clay, perhaps
pre-worked on a hand wheel. The surface of the
clay was left in its natural state and adorned with
red-painted motifs of stylised people, animals,
ships and geometric designs. Many of these are
evocative of the flora and fauna of the Nile
Valley.
This particular vessel is of globular form with
barrel-shaped lug handles and a flat everted rim.
The decoration is applied in red-slip on a buff
ground and consists of concentric circles
interposed with horizontal and vertical wavy
lines. Similar vessels have been found in pre-
dynastic graves and once held liquids or
substances for use in the afterlife. In addition to
its historic value, the vessel has a strong
aesthetic appeal with its bold, abstract design.
(AM)
- (SK.027)
|
| |
|
