A good-sized Corinthian black-figure flat-bottomed aryballos with a wide, flat rim. The globular body is decorated with a frieze depicting a siren to left with horizontally outspread wings, to the right, a swan with rosettes as filling ornaments. On the shoulder concentrical circles and tongue decoration. The spout flat with a small opening and a short handle from the rim to the shoulder. On the base also concentrical circles.
 
Ancient Greek, Late Corinthian I: Circa 575-550 BC
 
Condition: Complete and intact, with more pronounced abrasion to the decoration on one side.
Height 13 cms (5.1 ins).
 
Provenance: Kurt Schmid, Basel, Switzerland, collected between 1950s - 1970s.
 
Compare Plate 11 items 2 and 3: Corpus Vasorum Antiquorum Finland.
 
The aryballos was primarily designed for holding and dispensing oils or perfumes, often for use by athletes in gyms or during bathing. It was common from the 7th to the 5th centuries BC, often with decorative motifs, such as geometric patterns, mythological scenes, or floral designs. They were convenient for hanging from the wrist or attaching to a belt, making them practical for individuals on the move. Their compact and elegant design has made them popular artifacts in archaeological collections.
 
'Corinthian potters and painters invented a technique of silhouetted forms that would evolve into the black figures of Athenian vase painting. Typically, their vessels, like this neck amphora, are decorated with tapestry-like patterns of small animals and plant motifs.' Met Museum NY https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/247191.
 
For further information see our blog post on Ancient Greek pottery.