Keywords: BLW Rock Crystal Ewer (1).jpg Rock Crystal Ewer about 1000-50 <br /> Egypt probably Cairo <br /> Carved rock crystal <br /> <br /> This rare ewer was carved from a single piece of extremely hard transparent stone known as rock crystal On either side a bird of prey attacks an antelope The image may have symbolised the ruler's ability to overcome his enemies <br /> <br /> The plain surfaces such as the band around the neck were probably once covered with mounts of gold and other materials These would have contrasted with the clear crystal which one writer of the time described as combining the properties of air and water Adam Morgan Victoria and Albert Museum http //www vam ac uk/ 7904-1862 http //collections vam ac uk/item/O69906/ewer/ PD Pitchers Rock crystal objects Fatimid Rock Crystal Ewer in Victoria and Albert Museum London |