The artwork titled “Terracotta Lekythos (oil Flask)” is attributed to Ancient Greek Pottery and dates back to circa 440 BC. This piece, crafted from terracotta, belongs to the Classical art movement and falls under the genres of mythological painting and utensil. It is part of the White-ground series and is currently housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art (Met) in New York City, NY, US.
The terracotta lekythos, traditionally used for storing oil, showcases the elegance of Classical Greek pottery with its slender form and finely painted white-ground technique. The main body of the flask features a typical mythological scene, rendered in delicate lines and muted colors, depicting figures standing on either side of an altar or a stele. The figures are adorned in draped garments and interact with the central motif, which is framed at the top with an intricate meander pattern. The neck and base of the lekythos are coated in a dark glaze, enhancing the visual contrast against the central painted area. The ornamental detailing at the top of the vessel neck exemplifies the refined aesthetic and sophisticated techniques characteristic of ancient Greek artistry. This artifact not only served a functional purpose but also exemplified the cultural and artistic achievements of its era.