This is a splendid example of an olpe,
an
earthenware vessel lacking a spout used
for
pouring liquids and oils. The stunning
painted
decoration is representative of the
expert level of
artistry achieved in the city of Athens,
both by
the potters and the painters. The
elegant
curving forms of the olpe are a
noteworthy
achievement in and of themselves. A
centrally
ribbed handle rises out of the body of
the pot
and terminates in rotelles where it
joins the rim.
The frontal painted scene represents a
satyr
carrying off a maenad. The mythological
creature carries a horn in his left
hand, his beard
and tail both highlighted in red. The
maenad
wears a himation elaborated with red
dots and a
red stripe. Two dotted vines arch out
from
behind her. A band of ivy leaves frames
the sides
of the scenes while various patterned
bands,
including the meander motif and a
checkerboard
pattern, frame the top. By far, this
scene is the
centerpiece of this extraordinary
example of
Attic vases. Ancient Greek civilization
is famed
today for their many philosophical and
political
achievements. However, nothing is more
immediate and impressive as their
pottery.
Through examples such as this, the
golden age
of Athens becomes tangible and eternal.
Although the Parthenon may stand in
ruins
today, when we hold this Attic olpe in
our hands,
we can envision the past and the glories
of
Ancient Greece alive and vibrant again.
- (PF.5759)
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