Magna Graecia, Southern Italy, ca. late 4th to early 3rd century BCE. A lovely wheel-made lidded lekanis, the lid beautifully decorated via the red-figure technique with two Ladies of Fashion, each one wearing a saccos (head scarf) with pearl strands and hair pins on either side, separated by stylized palmettes and frets on the vertical rim that meets the similarly shaped body below. Many of the details are tastefully added in fugitive white paint. The large knob features abstract radial motifs on its depression; the concave, tiered foot mirrors the silhouette of the handle to complete this wonderfully symmetrical vessel. Note the slightly angled strap handles, each flanked by pointed adornments, as well as the generally freer style - relative to most Apulian examples - of the painting. Size: 8.25" W handlespan x 5.75" H (21 cm x 14.6 cm)

Lidded lekanides were cosmetic containers, often 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 on this example wears a highly ornamented kekryphalos hairstyle befitting of such an occasion. This vessel has a very interesting iridescent patina that gives it a sparkling appearance.

Provenance: private Hagar collection, St. Louis, Missouri, USA collection, acquired from private Atlanta, Georgia collection formed in the 1970's to 1990

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#128954

Chips / losses to pointed adornments flanking strap handles as shown. Chips / losses to knob and rims of lower section and upper section. Normal surface wear with scuffs and areas of deposits. Tondo of interior shows stunning silvery iridescence.