Magna Graecia, South Italic Colonies, Apulia, ca. 340 to 325 BCE. A graceful wheel-thrown terracotta lekanis with a symmetrically shaped lid and body - each with a pedestal bowl, narrow neck or leg, and discoid handle or foot. The wide body has a lip to keep the lid in place and 2 thick horizontal loop handles. The lid's handle features a starburst design in the tondo, and the top is adorned with 2 palmettes and a pair of red-figure 'ladies of fashion' with kekryphalos hairstyles and serene faces. These figures are often thought to represent brides, or youthful women, and they are found painted on pottery that was made to be placed in the tombs of women. Both lid and body are detailed with lustrous black glaze, and silvery iridescence has formed over some glazed areas Size: 6" in diameter x 4.625" H (15.2 cm x 11.7 cm)

Lidded lekanides were cosmetic containers, frequently given by fathers to brides on their wedding day. The lady of fashion motif complements this - often thought to represent a young woman on her wedding day. Each lady wears a kekryphalos hairstyle, earrings, and a beaded necklace. This vessel has a very interesting iridescent patina that gives it a sparkling appearance.

Provenance: private J. P. collection, Rye, Colorado, USA; ex-Bill Buffinger collection, Hollywood, California, USA; ex-Pegasi Numismatics, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA

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#166162

Vessel repaired from at least 3 pieces with some restoration in areas. Restoration to periphery of lid. Expected nicks, chips, and abrasions as shown. Otherwise, both are very nice with impressive remaining pigments.