Archaeology The East Museums Observations

Lebanese Late Bronze Age cosmetic vessel in the form of a duck, carved from hippopotamus tooth

This duck lying on its back was made in the Late Bronze Age from a hippopotamus tooth, and it is hollow inside. It is a special vessel for cosmetics and a true luxury object, an example of rare Lebanese work in ivory. From beak to belly, the duck was filled with cosmetic preparations or perfumes. Ducks of this kind are known to have been owned by Assyrian kings. I rather think modern connoisseurs would not say no to one either: the design is impeccable, and as for the use of teeth, today there are plenty of alternative eco-friendly materials. If you find yourself in Lebanese museums, you will surely come across a reference to, or a description of, this exhibit

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September digest: archaeological finds, exhibitions, museums, theatre and the Church

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Lebanese Late Bronze Age cosmetic vessel in the form of a duck, carved from hippopotamus tooth

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September digest: archaeological finds, exhibitions, museums, theatre and the Church

Frederic Leighton

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