Mycenaean, Late Helladic IIIB 1300-1190 B.C.
 

Clay, dark brown matt glaze. H. 6 11/16 in; 17 cm

A squat Mycenaean jar for perfume oil with a central support to which the handles that rise up from the shoulder are connected, forming a shape reminiscent of a stirrup. The slightly flaring spout is likewise located on the shoulder that is decorated with four abstract, sickle-shaped ornaments with central protrusion. The ends of the motif are connected by a curve composed of dashes. The rest of the shoulder, belly and foot is adorned by encircling bands and groups of lines. Encircling lines on the central support. Reserved base with broad ring foot and old label “4”.

Surface of belly chipped in two places, body of vessel otherwise intact.

Published: Herbert A. Cahn and David Cahn, Kunstwerke der Antike, Auction 1, 15.6.1998, lot 7 (illus). Thereafter priv. coll. A. G. Basel.