Flask for kohl. Algeria, ca. 1600

Flask for kohl. Algeria, ca. 1600.
Chiseled silver.
The rooster crowning the piece is later.
With seal.
Measurements: 14.5 cm (height) x 5 cm (diameter).

This bottle for kohl, antimony sulfide powder used by women to outline their eyelids with the help of a merwed or wand, features a chain that adds to its charm and shows the fine craftsmanship that went into its creation. The intricate and detailed designs are not merely ornamental, but also an expression of the aesthetic sensibility of the culture from which it originates.
Kohl is a cosmetic made from a grayish mineral called galena, which is ground and mixed with other minerals to form a kind of ash.
This cosmetic was used mainly for two reasons: ritual and ornamental. Women wore make-up and wigs during rituals and even on a daily basis. In addition, this mineral has great bactericidal properties, so in addition to protecting the eyes from the sun, it was also used as a medicine and eye protector.