Ca. 400-300 BC.
Fashioned from pottery, this cup exhibits a captivating and distinct aesthetic. Its surface is entirely adorned with a lustrous black glaze, creating a visually striking impact. The cup features a squat body, a ring base, an outwardly curved rim, and an elegantly looped handle that gracefully connects the shoulder to the lip. It is worth mentioning that the interior of the cup also bears the same glaze, resulting in a harmonious and unified visual experience. Within the realm of ancient Greek ceramic production, the utilization of a black glaze held profound significance. This glaze served both functional and aesthetic purposes. Functionally, the black glaze acted as a protective coating, safeguarding the pottery from moisture absorption and enhancing its overall durability. By applying this layer, the cup maintained its structural integrity, ensuring it could withstand the demands of daily usage. Additionally, from an aesthetic standpoint, the black glaze contributed to the cup's allure, bestowing upon it a sleek and polished appearance that immediately captivated the observer.
Size: L:65mm / W:70mm ; 50g
Provenance: Property of a central London Gallery; formerly in a South English estate collection; acquired in the 1990s from Andre de Munter, Brussels, Belgium; previously in and old European collection.