The artwork is a “Terracotta Neck Amphora (jar)”, attributed to Ancient Greek Pottery, dating back to approximately 550 BC. Crafted from terracotta, this piece belongs to the Archaic period and falls under the genre of mythological painting and utensil. It is part of the Red-figure series and is currently housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art (Met) in New York City, NY, US.
The artwork showcases a traditional Greek amphora with a narrowed neck and twin handles extending from the shoulder to below the rim. The main visual narrative is rendered on the body of the amphora using the red-figure technique, a hallmark of the period. The mythological scene depicted involves dynamic human figures outlined in black against the terracotta background, accented by intricate detailing and expressive postures. Above the central tableau, the neck features geometric and floral motifs, which add to the vessel’s ornate nature. This harmonious blend of functionality and artistic flair embodies the ancient Greek mastery of integrating utility with visual storytelling. The amphora stands as a testament to the technical and aesthetic prowess of its era.