Attic Black-figured Lekythos

Culture: Greek

Period: Early 5th century B.C.

Material: Terrakotta

Dimensions: 15.6 cm high

Price: Sold

Ref: 2437

Provenance: From the private collection of the French archaeologist Louis-Gabriel Bellon (1819-1899). For over 120 years in the family estate.

Condition: Intact

Description: Black-figured lekythos on a profiled, broad stand ring. The image area depicts a quadriga with four black horses, which raise their front legs. In the chariot a bearded charioteer in a long white vestment holds the reins. Above meander. On the neck tongue and on the shoulder ray decoration. Lekythoi were made to store oil which was used in the classic world for a variety of purposes. While larger examples were normally used for storing olive oil, smaller, more delicate examples such as the present one were reserved for the bathroom to keep precious essences with exquisite aromas. With an old collection label with the number 298.