MIDDLE GEOMETRIC PERIOD, CIRCA 800-770 B.C.

Details

AN ATTIC PEDESTALLED KRATER
MIDDLE GEOMETRIC PERIOD, CIRCA 800-770 B.C.
The rounded body with central panel of hatched meander, framed by triple horizontal lines, with band of rays below and zigzag above, tongues on rim, encircling bands of varying widths on the lower body, ribbed stem and splayed foot, with horizontal lug handles, decorated with diagonal lines, joined to the rim by a vertical strap handle, decorated with horizontal lines, flanked, on the rim, by two knobs, the interior with concentric bands
16 3/8 in. (41.5 cm.) high; 21 7/8 in. (55.5 cm.) diam. inc. handles.

Provenance

with Herbert A. Cahn, Basel, from whom acquired by the present owner in 1987.

Brought to you by

Francesca Hickin

fhickin@christies.com +44 (0)20 7752 3195

Lot Essay

Monumental kraters, such as this, rarely survive. Originally produced in Athens, they served as markers for male graves, whilst belly-handled amphorae were used for female graves. The type was widely copied and exported. The decoration on this piece is typical of the Middle Geometric period, with stripes and bands of decorative elements. For similar and discussion, see J. Boardman, Early Greek Vase Painting, London, 1998, pp. 24-28 and p. 32, no. 34; see also British Museum, inv. no. 1861, 0425.51.

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