Crucible
Unknown Artist
ca. 1479–1458 B.C.
Medium
Baked mud Papyrus, Parchment, Paper
Dimensions
L. 21.5 cm (8 7/16 in)
Classification
Crucible
Period
New Kingdom
Department
Egyptian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Rogers Fund and Edward S. Harkness Gift, 1922
Accession Number
22.3.288
Art Historical Context
### Crucible, ca. 1479–1458 B.C. This intriguing crucible, crafted from baked mud by an unknown ancient Egyptian artisan, hails from the New Kingdom's Dynasty 18—a golden age of pharaonic power under rulers like Hatshepsut and Thutmose III. Measuring 21.5 cm in length, this heat-resistant vessel was essential for metallurgy, likely used to melt precious metals such as gold or copper in workshops buzzing with activity. Acquired by the Metropolitan Museum of Art in 1922 through the Rogers Fund and Edward S. Harkness Gift, it offers a tangible glimpse into Egypt's advanced craftsmanship. Baked ...