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HOME :
Classical Antiquities :
Corinthian : Corinthian Askos in the Form of a Bird
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Corinthian Askos in the Form of a Bird - PF.5591
Origin: Mediterranean
Circa: 400
BC
to 300
BC
Dimensions:
5.25" (13.3cm) high
x 2.625" (6.7cm) wide
Collection: Classical
Medium: Terracotta
£7,800.00
Location: Great Britain
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| Description |
An askos is traditionally used for pouring oil.
However, this vessel has taken on the
untraditional form of a bird. The elongated beak
served as a spout while the oil would have been
loaded through the opening at the top of the
bird’s back. Next to the loading mouth, there is
a strap handle decorated with black painted
lines. In fact, the entire vessel is elaborated with
red and black painted highlights. Radiating lines
depict the texture of the tail feathers protruding
from the hind. The wings are elegantly painted
with feathers and rows of hash marks. The
bulging red eyes with recessed centers are
painted in, as are sporadic spots along the neck.
While pottery and functional vessels often took
the form of animals, few are quite so entirely
successful. In the end, this is not a pouring jar in
the shape of a bird; but a bird in the form of a
pouring jar.
- (PF.5591)
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