Magna Graecia, Italy, Apulia / Daunian, ca. 4th century BCE. A delightful, wheel-thrown pottery lekanis presenting a ring-form foot then slanted walls that spread outwards and then rise upwards to a flared rim, all flanked by a pair of curving handles and snuggly fit with a hemispherical lid capped by a bulb-shaped handle. Lovely remains of black pigment adorn the ancient vessel in the form of 3 concentric circles at the bottom of the basin and a horizontal, zigzag striation that encompasses the exterior. Additional concentric bands adorn the lid. Lekanides were cosmetic containers that were often gifted to brides by their fathers on their wedding day. Size: 6.4" Diameter x 4" H (16.3 cm x 10.2 cm)
Daunian society was a mixture of native Italians and Greeks who had settled in the area. As early as the 6th century BCE, Daunia was an extremely wealthy region as is evidenced by the rich grave goods from the urban centers of Canosa, Arpi, and Salapia among others.
This piece has been tested using thermoluminescence (TL) analysis and has been found to be ancient and of the period stated. A full report is available for purchase. Please inquire.
Provenance: East Coast collection, New York Gallery, New York City, New York, USA, acquired before 2010
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#146919
Condition
Both ancient, but originally separate pieces. Expected nicks, chips, and abrasions, commensurate with age. Otherwise, intact and excellent. TL holes to base and interior of lid.