In the eighth century B.C., Greek settlers left
their homeland behind and established a string
of colonies along the Adriatic coast of Southern
Italy. After the rise of Rome centuries later, this
region would become known by the Latin term
Magna Graecia, literally “Greater Greece,” due to
the dense concentration of Greek settlements.
The Greeks flourished here alongside the native
populations, amassing great wealth through
trade and importing their Hellenic culture
throughout the area. They in turn were
influenced by their neighbors, so that Magna
Graecian pottery developed into a unique style
that reflected both Greek and native Italian
traditions. The Daunians were one such native
culture that lived alongside the Greek colonies.
Daunian pottery can be characterized by its
rounded forms, geometric, linear designs, and
eathern tones. The Greeks adopted some of the
Daunian forms for themselves, revealing the
cultural interplay that so distinguishes the art of
Magna Graecia, both in respects to the Greeks as
well as the native peoples such as the Daunians.
Having a graceful, double barrel-shape linked by
an arched handle, this charming pot is covered
with delicate patterns largely taken from nature,
in which we can still see the flowing brush of the
ancient artisan. Waves encircle the shoulder,
plant fronds cover the handle, and a leaping
dolphin appears in one of the lower panels. The
double body would suggest a ceremonial or
ritual function. This is a rare and lovely vessel
that seems very much a reflection of the natural
surroundings of Magna Graecia.
- (PF.0023)
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