Description:

Athens, Greece, ca. 500 to 490 BCE. Attic Black-figured lekythos (vessel used in the bath to hold oils and unguents). Vessel stands on short, tiered foot with tapered base, angled shoulder and flared spout to which a thin strap handle has been attached. The vessel is decorated in black-figure technique (black images upon red background) with three seated maenads. The maenad in the center is playing a lyre, the two on the sides are relaxing, probably drinking wine and just chilling with the music. Band of vines between each maenad. Size: 6.75" H (17.1 cm)

The ancient women of Bacchus, the maenads, or bacchants are one of the most prolific groups in surviving religious imagery from antiquity. Artists and sculptors throughout the ages have made them their subjects. These wild women who engaged in uninhibited frenzy were considered a mystery even in the ancient world. For the ancients, the maenads represented the dangers of women left unchaperoned by male authority. Yet for many women, the worship of Bacchus allowed them to experience what life could be like as an unfettered maenad.

Provenance: private Young collection, New Hampshire, USA, acquired early 2000's

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#182759

  • Condition: Spout reattached else excellent. Surface deposits especially along inner rim and at foot.

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December 7, 2023 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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