Lion-Shaped Perfume Jar
GEM Number
39
Collection
Tutankhamun Galleries
Period
New Kingdom
Dynasty
18
Description
This fancy perfume jar in the form of a crowned lion standing on a tall stool was found in the Annex. Howard Carter said it still contained perfumed ointment when found, ‘a dried blackened fatty substance’. The vessel is carved out of Egyptian alabaster. The lion’s teeth and tongue are ivory and his now-missing earrings and claws were probably gold. Tutankhamun and Ankhesenamun’s names are carved into a panel on the front of the lion’s chest. The crown lid was found on the floor next to the jar, with remains of linen strips that had tied it to the top of the lion’s head.
Alabaster
Height
59.7 cm
Width
16.8 cm
Length
19 cm