FISH-SHAPED BLUSH PALETTE Egypt, Naqada I-II, mid-4th millennium B.C. Green shale. On the back, in black ink "EGYPT PREDYNASTIC" L. 17,5 cm Provenance Former Hawkins collection, USA, before 1970 Former Audrey Clark collection, Washington, D.C., USA Private collection The elliptical palette is a stylized reproduction of a fish's body, as indicated by the two triangular incisions marking its tail. A hole for suspension is pierced at the level of the spine. Very popular throughout the 4th millennium, these paddles were mainly used to grind blush and kohol for eye protection. Excellent condition, marks of the carver's tools. An Egyptian predynastic green schist cosmetic slate in the form of a fish. In elliptical shape, stylistically reproducing the body of a fish, as indicated above all by the two triangular incisions marking its tail. Drilled at the level of the backbone, is a suspension hole. Very popular throughout the fourth millennium, these palettes were used primarily to grind makeup and kohol for eye protection. Naqada I-II. Ca. mid 4th millennium B.C.