Egyptian New Kingdom Basalt Bolti Fish

This vessel is skillfully formed as a fish, which could be a tilapia whose anatomical parts are clearly indicated in sculptured shapes; the specie is especially recognizable in its long dorsal fin. Other details were marked in the carving; the round cavities of both eyes were inlayed (probably, with white limestone and black insertion for the pupil). The fins, gills, and the scales were finely engraved.

The imitation of natural proportions and shape of the fish’s body let the craftsman to use the opportunity of volume, which was enough to accommodate a big cavity on one of the sides. It occupies a major part of the body, transforming the figure of the fish into a container. Relatively small, it comfortably fits the human palm. The surface of the stone is carefully polished and smooth: apparently the tactile perception of the object was in the craftsmen’s mind.

This fish served as a cosmetic dish for the preparation and presentation of cosmetic substances. The symbolic meaning of the objects shaped as fish was also considered: the bolti fish, the Nile tilapia, was observed to care for their young through mouthbrooding. It became therefore a universal symbol for rebirth and regeneration and was associated with the goddess Hathor and the sun god.

Entirely preserved; minor damage to tips of dorsal and bottom fins.

Ancient Works of Art, New York, prior to 1979;

Ex- Charles Weatherby private collection, Fort Worth, Texas, acquired 28 September 1979

ARNOLD D., An Egyptian Bestiary, New York, 1995, p. 37, no. 42.

HAYES W. C., The Scepter of Egypt: A Background for the Study of the Egyptian Antiquities in The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Vol. 2, The Hyksos Period and the New Kingdom (1675–1080 B.C.), New York, 1978, p. 123, fig. 65.

ROEHRING C. H., ed., Hatshepsut: From Queen to Pharaoh, New York, 2005, p. 264, no. 194.