Description:

Ancient Greece, Athens, ca. late 5th century BCE. A near miniature fine Attic skyphos vessel of characteristic form with twin handles extending outward on opposing sides, attached to remarkably thin pottery walls, decorated on both sides with an owl flanked by lovely olive branches. Classical mythology associates the owl with wisdom and femininity, as the owl was a symbol for Athena, the goddess of wisdom. According to legend, an owl sat on Athena’s blind side, enabling her to see the whole truth. Diana, the Roman deity akin to Athena, was also associated with the owl as well as the moon. A breathtaking Attic piece with extremely thin walls and superb paint! Most examples of owl cups come from Apulia and are much heavier and far less refined. This piece is classic, Attic of the finest form. Size: 4-1/2" x 2-1/8" (11.4 x 5.4 cm).

Provenance: Ex-private Bates collection, Clarksville, IA, ex-Joel Malter collection, acquired before 1990

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#110673

  • Condition: Intact with minimal surface wear. Root marks visible and crazing on interior.

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December 7, 2015 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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