Description:

Greece, Archaic Period, ca. 6th to early 5th century BCE. A finely-sculpted vessel with an elongated, tapered, teardrop-shaped body, a rounded base, a pair of small lug handles, and a drilled-out-interior cavity. The vessel is hand-carved from creamy yellow alabaster with streaks of natural chalky-white veining coursing throughout; the veining is beautifully illuminated when held to a bright light. The shape of the alabastron was common in Corinth, and made its way to Athens in the 6th century BCE. The term "alabastron" is Greek with Egyptian origins, and many of the oldest examples are painted white, perhaps in imitation of the stone. Alabastra were used to hold perfumed oil; in fact, scenes on painted vases show women using them to apply such oils after bathing. Size: 1.75" W x 6.8" H (4.4 cm x 17.3 cm).

Provenance: private East Coast, USA collection

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#141890

  • Condition: Nicks and abrasions to rim, handles, and exterior surface, with some light encrustations, otherwise intact and very good. Light earthen deposits throughout.

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February 6, 2019 7:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000