Greece, Corinth, ca. late 6th century BCE. A two-part polychrome pyxis, most likely used to hold cosmetics, ointments, or trinkets - its attractive form comprised of a globular body, corseted shoulder, short neck that flares to an everted rim with three caryatids joining rim to shoulder, all on a flared, concave foot with a knobbed, fitted lid. The surface presents an attractive decorative program with bands of striations and dotted/beaded bands on the body and tongues on the shoulder, and of course the caryatid supports make this piece extra special. A stunning vessel boasting a lovely silhouette and finely painted decoration. Size: 4.875" in diameter x 5.5" H (12.4 cm x 14 cm)

The caryatid which originated in ancient Greece was a sculpted female figure that functioned as an architectural support, replacing a standard column or pillar and actually supporting a temple's entablature. The most famous caryatids were created for the south porch of the Erechtheion gracing the Acropolis of Athens. The lovely caryatids embellishing this pyxis depict finely modeled and painted busts presenting beautiful visages with naturalistic, feminine features and long coiffures above elegant torsos with painted necklaces and garments.

Provenance: private New York, USA collection; acquired at Sotheby's New York, June 2000, lot 227

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#123463

Lid repaired from three pieces. Areas of repair/restoration to vessel walls. Chips to rim of lid and rim of vessel. Small loss to head of one caryatid. Encrustation on underside of base. Expected surface wear with pigment loss and a few scuffs here and there, but overall a very rare and impressive piece.