Rare Greek Attic Black-Figure Alabastron

Ancient Greece, Athens (Attic), ca. 500 BCE. A terracotta alabastron extensively decorated via the black-figure technique - presenting a wide central register adorned by a net-like motif as well as a dotted checkerboard motif that is set on the diagonal to resemble diamonds, with vertical bands of zigzag motifs separating the two panels. Above is a register of Greek key followed by a register of stylized tongues. Linear bands mark the upper border of the decorative program and incised linear bands adorn the lower section creating a nice contrast with the black ground. A very special example with a mesmerizing black-figure decorative program. Size: 2.125" in diameter x 5.75" H (5.4 cm x 14.6 cm)

The alabastron form's history extends back to Corinth, but was only preserved in Athenian pottery examples back to the mid-sixth century BCE. These vessels most likely held perfumed oils, and we know from imagery in vase paintings that women using alabastra following a bath.

Provenance: ex-private French collection, acquired before 1970

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#149123
Condition Report: Neck/rim reattached. Normal surface wear with a few surface chips/abrasions/scuffs to the body commensurate with age.