Large Cypriot Belly-Handled Amphora

Place of OriginCyprus

Dateabout 650 BCE

DimensionsH: 33 7/8 in. (86.0 cm); Diam (rim): 18 3/8 in. (46.7 cm); Diam (body): 23 1/2 in. (59.7 cm); Diam (foot): 6 3/4 in. (17.2 cm)

MediumWheel-thrown, slip-decorated earthenware.

ClassificationCeramics

Credit LineGift of Edward Drummond Libbey

Object number

1987.212

On View

Toledo Museum of Art (2445 Monroe Street), Gallery, 02, Classic

DescriptionA large, two-handled amphora with a bulbous body, slightly flaring neck, and wide, flat rim. The surface is decorated with intricate geometric and floral designs, including checkered triangles, guilloche panels, lotus flowers, and rosettes in dark brown and red over a pale buff background.

Label TextBrilliantly decorated with rectangles, checkered triangles and squares, horizontal bands, and other ornaments, this storage vessel exhibits many of the characteristics of ceramic work from the Geometric period of ancient Greek art. Utilizing linear and geometric patterns allowed the painters to emphasize the shape and dimensions of their vessels. However, this massive amphora is actually a transitional work of art. It demonstrates some of the new features found during the Orientalizing period, including the use of the lotus flower. Ancient Egyptian artists inspired their Greek neighbors, who began to incorporate into their art floral motifs they had discovered through Eastern trade networks.Published ReferencesRoth, Evan, "Ancient Greek vases: The Toledo Museum of Art," Museum News [AAM], vol. 69, no. 1, Jan./Feb. 1990, p. 38, 39.

"Museum acquistitions," Minerva, vol. 1, no. 2, Feb. 1990, p. 42, repr.