Egyptian stone vessel making reached its peak during the 6th Dynasty, or roughly 2300–2100 BC. The vessels were needed to hold cosmetic oils and ointments, which were used in daily life and important rituals. The vessels’ thick, stone walls kept the fatty substances in the oils cool and in good condition. Bowls, vases and jars were all made with drills and chasing. Once the vessel was hollowed out and shaped into its final form, the outside was smoothed by an abrasive material such as sand. The vessels were commonly engraved with copper chisels once they were finished, and these engravings often took the form of ropes and nets, common tools in Egyptian society. No matter how beautiful the final, engraved piece turned out, the Egyptians invariably painted the outside with color