Beautiful Greek Archaic Alabastron

**Originally Listed At $500**

Greece, Archaic Period, ca. 6th century BCE. A finely carved alabastron, presenting a characteristicalley elongated body, twin low-relief lug handles, a short attenuated neck, a dramatically flared, flat rim, and narrow mouth - all upon a rounded base. The natural inclusions of the alabaster create bands of creamy white, beige, and grey hues - and the vessel is partially translucent when held to the light. The alabastron form was common in Corinth, and came to Athens in the sixth century BCE. The term alabastron is Greek with Egyptian origins, and many examples were actually made of painted white pottery to imitate the coveted stone. We know that alabastra were used to hold perfumed oil, as scenes on painted vases show women using them to apply fragrant oils after bathing. Size: 3.25" H (8.3 cm); 3.625" H (9.2 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: The Dere Family Collection, New York, USA, assembled 1970's-2000's; ex-Neil Phillips Collection, New York, USA, acquired in 1980s

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#147816
Condition Report: Minute nicks to rim. Areas of abrasion to the body. Collection labels on the exterior wall and underside of stand.