aryballos (Bottle)
About this object
History of use
Aryballoi served as containers for expensive liquids such as oils and perfumes. They were primarily intended for everyday use but also served as grave goods.
Narrative
This collection was said to have been acquired by James George during his service in Greece (Athens) from 1945-48. Middle or Late Corinthian.
Cultural context
utilitarian; funerary
Iconographic meaning
Siren in centre of composition should be flanked on both sides. The decoration that remains looks like a female head facing right (perhaps another siren).
Physical description
Clay bottle consisting of a globular body with flat base, narrow neck with flared rim connected to shoulder by flat handle. Light brown surface with painted decoration in various states of preservation. Top of rim decorated with concentric circles; handle has zigzag pattern; shoulder decorated with tongues. Above and below figured scene are borders of horizontal lines; bottom of base in concentric circles. Figured scene consists of a male siren with spread wings in center, facing right, with anatomical details. Body primarily dark brown with red-brown areas on wings, throat, and breast. Leading edge of wings decorated with circles of red-brown. To right of siren is a water fowl, facing left with details. To left is a possible third figure. Between figures and in empty spaces are traces of dots and rosettes.
Date Made
580 B.C.E.-550 B.C.E.
Date Acquired
28 Nov 1985
How Acquired
Donated
Credit Line
Measurements
Overall: 13.5 cm x 11.8 cm
Object Number
Ce245