|
HOME :
Classical Antiquities :
Apulian : Apulian Red-Figure Pyxis
|
 |
|
|
|
Apulian Red-Figure Pyxis - PF.5986
Origin: Magna Graecia
Circa: 500
BC
to 400
BC
Dimensions:
6" (15.2cm) high
x 4.625" (11.7cm) wide
Collection: Classical
Medium: Terracotta
£4,800.00
Location: UAE
|
|
|
| Photo Gallery |
|
|
| Description |
This gorgeous pyxis is composed of two circular
hemispherical halves. The bottom bowl is
decorated with a laureate band while the upper
lid features the busts of two women and
palmette motifs. The style of painting is typical
of the Apulian region of the Greek colonies in
southern Italy. White highlights define the
women’s necklaces, earrings, and hairstyles. The
spherical shape of this pyxis is rare, although not
unheard of. In antiquity, this would have been
used by women to house jewelry or other such
little precious trinkets. Even today, women
continue to keep their treasures in luxurious
containers that both protect and enhance the
prestige of the items. Surely this phenomenon
can trace its roots back to objects like this pyxis.
Over two thousand years ago, a Greek noble lady
living in southern Italy might have safeguarded
her priceless jewelry in this pyxis. However,
today the pyxis has become the treasure.
Although the contents it once contained have
long since disappeared, the beauty and history of
this pyxis astounds us in itself. Today, we
appreciate it for what it is, not for what it holds.
- (PF.5986)
|
| |
|
