The civilisation of Elam was one of the ancient culture of modern Iran and flourished between circa 2700 BC and 539 BC. Such vessel can be referred to the so-called Intercultural Style, an ensemble of carved vessels characterised by a distinctive low-relief decoration, depicting abstract and zoomorphic motifs. Vessels of this type have been recovered widely across all Near East regions, including Elam, dating from circa the 3rd millennium BC. This vessel could have been used for cosmetics: cosmetic products, such as eyeliner, were widely used in the Near East during ancient times. Various vessels were designed to facilitate skincare and the application of make-up, and this one could have been used to grind, mix, and apply ingredients for facial or body cosmetics.
To discover more about the Elamites, please visit our relevant post: Civilisations of the Ancient Near East.
