Kerma ware bowl, Egypt, Early New Kingdom 1550 - 1070 BCE

The Kerma Kingdom was a powerful civilization that emerged in Nubia (present-day Sudan) around 2500 BCE and reached its zenith between 1750 and 1500 BCE. Located along the Nile River, the Kerma Kingdom flourished due to its strategic location for trade and its control over valuable resources such as gold, ivory, and copper. The kingdom's capital, also named Kerma, was a major center of trade and culture in the region. Kerma was known for its impressive architecture, including large mud-brick structures and fortifications. The kingdom developed sophisticated metallurgical techniques, producing exquisite gold jewelry and other metal artifacts. Additionally, Kerma was renowned for its distinct pottery styles, which were traded across the region.