Greek Gnathian Skyphos Knudesen Group

Magna Graecia, South Italy, Gnathian, possibly by the Knudesen Group, ca. 300 BCE. A very well-preserved skyphos that is extensively decorated in the Gnathian style. The walls not only present beautiful painted designs but also two wide fluted/ribbed registers that create a lovely texture. Just below the rim, on both sides, is a decorative passage delineated in white pigment featuring a central line marked by a concentric circle at the center and upper and lower borders of tiny bud-like motifs. A slender red line underscored this. Then following the upper band of ribs is a register of nested s-scrolls bordered by two additional red lines. The foot is painted in red and black striations, and the vessel ground and handles are enveloped in a rich black glaze. The size, shape, and stunning decorative program of this skyphos suggests that it was created for a symposium. Size: 8.5" W handle span x 6.25" H (21.6 cm x 15.9 cm)

Gnathia ware is named for the site where it was first discovered - the Apulian site of Egnathia. The black glaze ware is traditionally decorated with floral motifs in red, white, or yellow hues. Scholars believe that its production most likely was centered around Taras, with primary workshops in Egnathia and Canosa. The quantity and quality of Greek colonial Apulian potters increased significantly following the Peloponnesian War when Attic exports dramatically decreased. Apulian artistry demonstrates influences of Ionian (Athenian, Attic) conventions, as well as Doric (western colonial Greek) styles, with a palpable native Italian aesthetic.

Provenance: private J.H. collection, Beaverton, Oregon, USA, acquired in November 2002; ex-Tom Cederlind collection, Portland, Oregon, USA

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#149636
Condition Report: Repair/restoration to rim. One handle repaired and reattached. Some touch up to pigment along the rim, upper register, and handles. Foot reattached with restoration to break lines and some repainting. Normal surface wear to body with minor pigment loss and scuffs commensurate with age to the exterior. Pigment loss and deposits on the interior.