Cup

Place of OriginAncient Rome, from Egypt

Date2nd century

DimensionsH: 2 3/4 × W: 3 1/8 × D: 3 1/8 Diameter 3 in. Foot Diameter 1 in. (7 × 7.9 × 9.5 × 2.6 cm)

MediumWheel-thrown, slip-decorated earthenware

ClassificationCeramics

Credit LineGift of Michael and Stark Ward in memory of Kurt T. Luckner

Object number

1995.24

On View

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

Label TextDecorated with white drops that combine to create floral patterns and leaves, this cup came from the Roman province of Egypt. Egypt came under provincial control after Octavian (later named Emperor Augustus) defeated the tragic lovers, Mark Antony and Cleopatra, and annexed the territory for Rome. The once great nation would remain under Roman control for over five centuries. Egypt quickly became a jewel of the Roman Empire, as it was the lead producer of grain, while at the same time exercising significant influence over Roman popular culture.Published ReferencesRoman Pottery, London, Charles Ede Ltd., 1994, no. 25.Comparative ReferencesSee also Woolley, C.L. and T.R. MacIver, Karanog: The Romano-Nubian Cemetery, Philadelphia, 1910, University of Pennsylvania, Egyptian Department of the University Museum, Eckley B. Coxe Junior Expedition to Nubia, vol. III (text) and vol. IV (plates), pl. 90, nos. 8704-5, and pl. 100, no. 9019.

cf. Pagenstecher, R., Expedition Ernst von Sieglin, Ausgrabungen in Alexandria, Band II, Die griechische-ägyptische Sammlung Ernst von Sieglin, 3, Teil, Leipzig, 1913, p. 99, fig. 113.

cf. Annals of Archaeology and Anthropology, Liverpool, 1924, vol. 11, pl. XLIX.1.

cf. Garcia Guinea, M.A. and J. Teixidor, La necropolis meroitica de Nellauk (Argin Sur, Sudan), Memorias de la Mision Arqueológica en Nubia, no. VI, Madrid, 1965, fig.s 3.3-4, 5.1, pl. VIIb.

cf. Die ägyptische Sammlung des Bayerischen Staates, Munich, exhibition catalogue, 1966, no. 102, Äs 3846.