Mycenaean Alabastron

Circa 1200-1100 BC

Description:  Mycenaean straight-sided alabastron whose symmetry and simple linear design have instant modern appeal yet survives from the Age of Homeric Greece.   (The term Mycenaean refers to the Late Bronze Age of peninsular Greece circa 1500-1100 BC).  The alabastron was originally used as storage vessel with a wide open mouth that was covered in antiquity using a cloth or stopper.  Two handles positioned on opposite sides are beautifully incorporated into the design and add a simple balancing dimension. The fine, buff terracotta clay harmonizes wonderfully with the burnt-orange paint decorating the alabastron in bands of alternating width.  The base is painted with a central orange spiral motif.  Fine example of a popular early Greek type.  

Dimensions:  3.5 in (8.5 cm) high x 4.25 in (10.8 cm) wide

Condition:  Intact with some light surface wear but very vibrant original color. 

Provenance:  Formerly in the collection of British collector Ronald Bullock Esquire.  

Reference:  See Mycenaean Potter: An Introduction by P.A. Mountjoy (Oxford 1993), #236, page 93, for a related Late Helladic IIIC straight-sided alabastron. 

Price:  $1,400