Palettes were used by artists for grinding pigments and for preparing makeup. Makeup was worn by men and women for adornment, for physical protection from flies and the sun, and for spiritual protection from evil. Pigments (colors) were derived from powdered minerals, such as galena and malachite, which were mixed with oils to create a paint or makeup that could be applied to the face, sheets of papyrus (ancient Egyptian paper), and other surfaces.

Ancient Egyptians often placed provisions in their tombs. They believed that they would need food, tools, and other supplies in the afterlife. Eye makeup palettes were no exception. Their appearance in even the humblest burial sites suggests that makeup was an important part of the daily routine of Egyptians of all walks of life.