Rare Greek Attic Epichysis Lebes Gamikos

Greece, Athens, ca. 400 BCE. A fine black-glazed pottery pouring vessel that combines two body styles. The first, known as an epichysis, describes the characteristically spool-shaped lower body with a wide, convex shoulder. The second, a lebes gamikos, describes the tall, looped handles and delicate mouth with lid capped by a conical handle. Black pigment covers the upper part of the vessel, the projecting base edges, and the lid, contrasting beautifully with the earthy, pale red of the interior of the "spool" of the body. Size: 4.2" W x 3.75" H (10.7 cm x 9.5 cm)

Lebes Gamikos (plural lebetes gamikoi) are important and highly-symbolic vessels created in the Classical world. High handles and ornate designs characterize this particular style, and were used primarily in times of great happiness or immense sorrow. This form of pottery is used during ancient marriage ceremonies. Its name literally translates to "marriage vase", and it was used to ritualistically sprinkle the bride with water prior to the wedding. Lebetes gamikoi were also an integral component of funerary rituals, used to consecrate the body of and act as a grave marker for women who died without experiencing the act of betrothal.

Provenance: private East Coast, USA collection; ex-William Froelich collection, New York, USA, acquired in the 1970s

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#152895 Dimensions: Condition Report: The lid and upper body including handles have been repaired from multiple pieces and restored with overpaint on all surfaces. Lower body is in nice condition. Light deposits on non-painted surfaces.