Greece, Corinth, Rhodes, or eastern Greece, Archaic period, 600 BCE. A gorgeous aryballos in the shape of a warriors' head, complete with geometrically-decorated helmet, a sensitive and detailed face, and thin lines of brown-red pigment. Size: 2.8" L x 2.75" W x 4.05" H (7.1 cm x 7 cm x 10.3 cm)

An aryballos is a vessel with a small, round/ovoid body and a narrow neck terminating in a slightly flared, very narrow spout. The broad, flat lip is designed to prevent spillage. We know this object is from eastern Greece because of its unique shape; warriors' heads, animals, and other mold-made figures became the body of aryballoi in this area. The Archaic period saw a marked change in Greek art, from abstract, geometric forms to a naturalistic style influenced by Egypt and the Near East, here on full display. This would have served as a container for scented oil or medicine, owned by an athlete.

Provenance: Ex - Prominent LA County collector who acquired these prior to 2000

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#116334

Piece had been repaired in multiple places, but repairs are difficult to see. Remaining pigment in many places as shown.