Old Kingdom, 2686-2181 BC. A large travertine vessel with spherical body and everted rim, on a flat base. 6.7 kg, 26cm (10 1/4"). Property of a London gentleman; formerly in the Baptiste family collection of Paris since circa 1900. Dr Bonewitz notes: 'This is the most spectacular piece of travertine I have ever seen. It is so unusual I can't even speculate on its source.' Extremely fine condition.