Greece, Hellenistic period, ca. 3rd to 2nd century BCE. Presenting with breathtaking form, a wheel-thrown pyxis with a bell-shaped lower body resting upon three molded pottery lion's legs. The base features a broad lower rim and a tapered interior body that leads into a deep basin, and the corseted lid is wide enough to rest comfortably around the walls. Both base and lid are first decorated with orange slip that is festooned with draped laurel wreaths and a solid bar in fugitive yellow pigment. Atop the lid is a register of intricate sgraffito ivy that encloses the elegant female visage on top that longingly gazes to her right. A stunning example of fine Hellenistic artistry! Size (w/ lid): 7.375" W x 8.9" H (18.7 cm x 22.6 cm)
For another example of a Hellenistic pyxis with lion's legs, please see The British Museum, museum number 1861,0724.12
Provenance: private Orange County, California, USA collection, acquired in December 2017; ex-Artemis Gallery; ex-private New York, New York, USA collection; ex-Christie's, New York "Antiquities" auction (sale 14355, April 25, 2017, lot 231); ex-private German collection; ex-Sotheby's, London "Antiquities" auction (December 10-11, 1992, lot 534)
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#155869
Condition
Base and lid repaired from multiple pieces, with restoration in some areas of loss, and resurfacing with overpainting along new material and break lines. Nicks and minor abrasions to rims, feet, body, and face, with light fading to original pigment, minor encrustations within some areas, and touch-up painting on some exterior details. Light earthen deposits and nice remains of original pigment throughout.