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Ancient Greek Black-Glaze Perfume Bottle

$8,907.73
£6,500
€7,583.31
CA$12,201.37
A$13,570.59
CHF 7,086.14
MX$165,139.60
NOK 90,500.80
SEK 84,873.78
DKK 56,597.12
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About the Item

This sleek, black-glaze perfume pot dates to the 5th century BC and exemplifies the elegance of Athenian ceramic production in Ancient Greece. With a gently rounded body, and flared lip joined by a single strap handle, the small vessel is finished in a dark, lustrous black glaze. The distinctive surface typifies black glazed ware which originated in Athens as early as the 8th century BC, and quickly became one of the city’s most prized ceramic exports. One side of the vessel displays a rich copper-orange tone, likely the result of a misfire during production - but an enigmatic and unique addition. Similarly, the inscription - SKY - may be the beginning of the word Scythia or Scythian, suggesting the vessel once belonged to a Scythian foreigner. Small but full of character, this vessel is a wonderful display piece of sleek design and historical depth. Provenance: Private collection, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, UK, acquired in the late 19th or early 20th Century Subsequently with Charles Ede Gallery, London Literature: Greek Black Glaze, Charles Ede Gallery, 2021, p. 40. Please note that this item is a work of art and is thus exempt from US reciprocal tariffs. ArtAncient are dealers in rare wonders from the formation of the Solar System to late antiquity, discovering, studying and placing objects in extraordinary collections. Do not hesitate to contact us for more details on this piece.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 3.75 in (9.5 cm)Width: 3.75 in (9.5 cm)Depth: 2.96 in (7.5 cm)
  • Style:
    Classical Greek (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    c.425-400 BC
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use.
  • Seller Location:
    London, GB
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: 428231stDibs: LU1052246013332

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