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Greece, Athens, ca. 5th century BCE. Finely decorated via the black-figure technique with incised and added fugitive painted details, a beautiful lekythos of a traditional slender and elegant form. The iconographic program features a draped Maenad standing – perhaps dancing – in composite profile, as she holds her right hand upwards and holds a bunch of grapes in her lowered left hand – all the while with two jubilant Satyrs to her sides. In addition to the implied narrative of reverie, the details are amazing. Note how drapery folds of the Maenad’s billowing cloak are skillfully incised, and her face, arms, calves, feet, and hair ornament/diadem are painted white. The details of the Satyr’s physique are nicely incised as well. Flowing behind the trio are sinuous, dotted grapevines, a reference to Dionysos, the Greek god of wine and fertility, with lovely fruit or blossoms added in peachy white. Size: 8.75″ H (22.2 cm)
In addition to this iconographic program, wonderful decorative motifs embellish the vessel. Note the beautiful floral/palmette vine gracing the shoulder and the fretted band just beneath the neck. A very special piece indeed, replete with a strong form, lively iconography, and outstanding painting technique!
Condition: Minor surface wear with a few scuffs and nicks commensurate with age. Nicks to the rim of spout. Scattered white mineral deposits. Fugitive paint is very well preserved.
Provenance: private East Coast, USA collection
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