Terracotta Bail Amphora (jar) (c.310 BC) by Ancient Greek Pottery

Terracotta Bail Amphora (jar) - Ancient Greek Pottery - c.310 BC

Artwork Information

TitleTerracotta Bail Amphora (jar)
ArtistAncient Greek Pottery
Datec.310 BC
Mediumterracotta
Art MovementHellenistic
Current LocationMetropolitan Museum of Art (Met), New York City, NY, US

About Terracotta Bail Amphora (jar)

The “Terracotta Bail Amphora (jar)” is an ancient Greek pottery piece created around 310 BC. It is a terracotta artifact that features the red-figure technique, popular during the Hellenistic period. This amphora blends the roles of a utilitarian vessel with that of mythological painting, imbuing it with cultural and artistic importance. It is part of the Red-figure series and is currently located at the Metropolitan Museum of Art (Met) in New York City, NY, US.

The artwork displays a sense of grace and dynamic movement characteristic of Hellenistic art. Its surface is adorned with depictions of mythical creatures and possibly scenes from Greek mythology. The amphora’s form is elegant, with a slender neck leading up to a decorated mouth and a curved handle that arches over the top. The body of the jar expands and then tapers down to a narrow base. The primary scene shows figures that are rendered with attention to detail and narrative expression, demonstrating the skill and storytelling prowess of the artist. The use of black-figure on the red clay background helps in accentuating the details and gives the figures a dramatic presence. The decorative patterns above and below the main scene add to the overall aesthetic, framing the mythological depictions and emphasizing the craftsmanship involved in creating this work of art.

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