Lot Essay
For related examples see nos. 641, 648, 660 & 666 in Grote, "Nike" in LIMC, vol. VI.
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CIRCA 300 B.C.
Details
A CANOSAN POTTERY ASKOS
CIRCA 300 B.C.
The large spherical body on a flat base, the wide strap handle with slightly flaring edges arching over the back of the vessel, one side with a cylindrical spout above a head of Medusa molded in relief, the round face with lidded eyes and fleshy lips pursed into a smile, a pair of wings and snake heads emerging from her center-parted wavy locks, their tails knotted below her chin, a smaller head of Medusa on the opposite side with similar features but for the wings and snake heads, the vessel further enhanced with two separately-made figures of Nike positioned on wedge-shaped platforms flanking the handle, each winged goddess wearing a long belted chiton, their gesticulating arms arranged antithetically, preserving extensive white slip throughout
25 5/8 in. (65.1 cm.) high
CIRCA 300 B.C.
The large spherical body on a flat base, the wide strap handle with slightly flaring edges arching over the back of the vessel, one side with a cylindrical spout above a head of Medusa molded in relief, the round face with lidded eyes and fleshy lips pursed into a smile, a pair of wings and snake heads emerging from her center-parted wavy locks, their tails knotted below her chin, a smaller head of Medusa on the opposite side with similar features but for the wings and snake heads, the vessel further enhanced with two separately-made figures of Nike positioned on wedge-shaped platforms flanking the handle, each winged goddess wearing a long belted chiton, their gesticulating arms arranged antithetically, preserving extensive white slip throughout
25 5/8 in. (65.1 cm.) high
Provenance
American Private Collection.
Acquired by the current owner in 1983.
Acquired by the current owner in 1983.