NAQADA I-II, CIRCA 3500-3200 B.C.

"Black-topped ware” is a type of handmade pottery produced during the Predynastic Period, specifically Naqada I and Naqada II periods. The ware obtained its name from its distinctive feature: a black band at the top of the vessel which was achieved by placing the jar upside-down inside the kiln during firing. This particular vessel has an unusual depiction of an elephant at the front, which would have been carefully scratched onto the polished surface after the jar had been fired.
For another black-topped pottery jar with incised figural decoration, cf. Museum of Fine Arts Boston, acc. no. 99.710.