Urn vases were a common feature in Ancient Egypt, serving both practical and symbolic purposes. They were used for a variety of functions, including:

Storing the ashes of the deceased: Urns were often used to contain the cremated remains of individuals after cremation became popular in the New Kingdom (around 1570-1070 BC). These urns were typically made of stone, pottery, or even precious metals like gold.

Holding offerings for the afterlife: Urns were also used to hold food, drink, and other offerings for the deceased's journey to the afterlife. These offerings were believed to sustain the deceased in the afterlife and ensure their continued well-being.

Decorative purposes: Urns were often decorated with elaborate designs and symbols, depicting religious scenes, deities, and hieroglyphs. These decorations served both an aesthetic and a symbolic function, reflecting the beliefs and values of the ancient Egyptians.

Here are some specific types of urn vases found in Ancient Egypt:

Canopic jars: These were four small jars used to store the internal organs of the deceased after their removal during the mummification process. Each jar was dedicated to a specific organ and protected by a lid depicting the head of one of the Four Sons of Horus.

Makhla: These were large, round-bodied vessels with a narrow neck and flared rim. They were typically made of faience or pottery and decorated with geometric patterns or lotus flowers.

Ushebti jars: These were small jars used to hold ushebtis, small figurines that were placed in the tomb to perform manual labor for the deceased in the afterlife.

The value of an urn vase depends on several factors, including its age, material, condition, provenance, and decoration. Some rare and well-preserved examples can fetch millions of dollars at auction.