Classical World, Etruria, ca. 6th to 5th century CE. A stunning bronze oinochoe, cast in ancient Etruria yet boasting a minimalist form and simplicity of line that is immensely appealing to the modern eye. Sitting upon a planar base, the remarkable vessel presents a bulbous body, a sloped shoulder, a gently corseted neck, and a flared rim with a rolled periphery. A slender, ribbon-form handle gracefully rises from the rim to a high arch and then runs down the body of the vessel, thickening in size and terminating at the base in the head of a canine, likely a wolf, with a pointed snout, perky ears, a slender mouth, and neatly incised fur. Time has added an emerald patina that lends the vase a new visual dimension, transforming what was once a functional object into a work of art. Size: 4.5" Diameter x 6.4" H (11.4 cm x 16.3 cm)

The wolf head decoration immediately reminds us of the story of Romulus and Remus, legendary founders of Rome supposedly suckled by a she-wolf. Although the Capitoline Wolf, a famous depiction of this foundation myth, has since been disproven to be Etruscan (it seems more likely that it is medieval), we know that the Lupa capitolina, the seal of Rome, came from Etruscan wolf mythology. The animal seems to have functioned in the Etruscan religion as a psychopomp, a guide to the world of the dead.

Provenance: Barakat Gallery, Los Angeles, California, USA, acquired before 2000

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#170555

Expected abrasions commensurate with age and use. Minor chip to proper right ear of wolf head, as well as resurfacing to eyes, ears, and nose for emphasis of features. Light softening of incised detail on wolf head. Remains of modern adhesive to base, likely from display. Otherwise, intact and excellent with rich patina and lovely encrustations throughout.