Greek Silver Horse Rhyton

4th century BC. A substantial silver ceremonial drinking vessel comprising a fluted tubular curved body with rolled rim and lotus-flower detailing, and a protome of a galloping horse with head erect, ears pricked and a knop finial to the stiffened mane, forelegs extended; narrow conical spout to the chest; mounted on a custom-made stand. See Garnsey, P. Food and Society in Classical Antiquity, Cambridge, 1999 for discussion of the use of the rhyton at Greek feasts. 761 grams total, 17cm (6 3/4"). From an important London collection; acquired from J.J Klejman, New York, USA, 29 October 1964; formerly in the Thompson family collection; accompanied by a copy of positive metallurgic analytical results, written by Metallurgist Dr. Peter Northover (ex Department of Materials, Materials Science-Based Archaeology Group & Department of Materials, University of Oxford"). Rhytons formed part of the array of formal tableware for use at a ceremony such as a religious libation or a symposion drinking party. The rhyton was dipped into the krater wine container and held above the drinker's mouth with the spout covered by a thumb, then opened to release a stream of wine into the mouth.
Condition Report: Fine condition.