Magna Graecia, South Italy, Apulia, Gnathian, ca. late 4th century BCE to 3rd century BCE. A jaw-dropping pottery lidded pyxis, boasting a body of nearly perfect spherical form enveloped in black glaze, meticulously adorned with vertical ribs, and framed by thin, horizontal bands of red and white pigment, the elegant lid with a finial that beautifully mimics the form of the vessel below, all standing upon an extended pedestal base. Note the stunning silvery and rainbow-hued iridescence shimmering on the surface of this ancient vessel! Size: 3.5" in diameter x 5.25" H (8.9 cm x 13.3 cm)
Gnathia ware is named for the site where it was first discovered - the Apulian site of Egnathia. The black glaze ware is traditionally decorated with floral motifs in red, white, or yellow hues. Scholars believe that its production most likely was centered around Taras, with primary workshops in Egnathia and Canosa. The quantity and quality of Greek colonial Apulian potters increased significantly following the Peloponnesian War when Attic exports dramatically decreased. Apulian artistry demonstrates influences of Ionian (Athenian, Attic) conventions, as well as Doric (western colonial Greek) styles, with a palpable native Italian aesthetic.
Provenance: private New York, USA collection
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#164976
Condition
Chip to foot and interior rim of lid. Some nicks and losses to paint throughout. Otherwise, excellent with gorgeous iridescence.