Greek Attic Red-Figure Askos w/ Panther & Lady, TL’d

$3,495.00

In stock

Greece, Athens, ca. 5th to early 4th century BCE (421 to 400 BCE), circle of the Meidas Painter. A remarkably rare and finely executed Attic red-figure askos distinguished by its elegant sculptural form and unusually detailed figural decoration. The vessel features a low, rounded body surmounted by a high arched handle and a flaring spout, the compact form typical of askoi used for pouring oil or other precious liquids during domestic or ritual contexts. Encircling the upper body is a beautifully preserved painted frieze depicting the head of a woman facing a panther on either side. The animals are rendered with striking vitality, their elongated bodies dotted and outlined with delicate brushwork that articulates musculature, fur patterning, and expressive faces. Between them appears the carefully drawn female head, her profile composed with refined features and balanced line, creating a dramatic visual exchange between human and animal forms. Size: 9.3″ L x 6.8″ W x 6.9″ H (23.6 cm x 17.3 cm x 17.5 cm)

The composition is framed by an elegant tongue motif that radiates around the central medallion and repeats along the outer edge of the vessel, creating a rhythmic border that enhances the sense of movement across the surface. The painter’s confident use of line and added details demonstrates the technical sophistication characteristic of Attic red-figure workshops, where figures were first outlined and then enriched with fine interior drawing.

Askoi of this type are comparatively rare within the corpus of Attic red-figure pottery, particularly examples that combine such elaborate figural decoration with a sculptural handle and spout configuration. The vessel’s balanced design, dynamic imagery, and refined ornamental program together create a highly distinctive piece that reflects the creativity and precision of Classical Greek ceramic painters.

Cf. British Museum (1978,0411.20), Cyprus Museum (Beazley # 9058169), and Antikenmuseum und Sammlung Ludwig (BS1921.378).

This piece has been tested using thermoluminescence (TL) analysis and has been found to be ancient and of the period stated. A full printed and bound report will accompany the item upon purchase.

Condition: Professionally repaired with repainting affecting handle and spout, though some break lines still visible in areas. Light surface wear as shown. Otherwise, excellent presentation with impressive remaining detail.

Provenance: private Thornton, Colorado, USA collection, acquired November 2025 via London, UK auction house; ex-private London, UK collection; previously acquired on the Belgian art market; originally in the collection of H Lievens, Brussels, Belgium in the 1980’s

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A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all purchases.

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