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Ancient Greek Wedding Vase with Geometric and Vegetal Motifs

$22,000
£16,615.88
€19,193.92
CA$30,994.87
A$33,195.51
CHF 17,845.68
MX$403,178.92
NOK 225,488.86
SEK 206,451.81
DKK 143,413.66

About the Item

This elegantly proportioned vase is an unusually large and well-preserved example of a ceremonial nuptial vessel produced in South Italy during the 3rd to 4th centuries BC. Decorated in cream slip and brown glaze, the vessel features the characteristic broad, bowl-shaped body with vertical handles and a fitted lid, typical of the type. Known as lebes gamikos, these vessels were closely associated with ancient wedding rituals. The surface is decorated with a vegetal frieze around the shoulder, framed by thick horizontal bands, while laurel leaves and wave motifs encircle the body and lid. These motifs are both decorative and symbolic, with laurel in particular associated with purity, fertility, and divine protection. Originating in Classical Athens, the lebes gamikos was traditionally used to hold water for the ritual bathing of the bride prior to marriage. By the 4th century BC, Italic workshops such as those of Messapia had adopted and reinterpreted this form, blending Greek ceremonial traditions with local artistic practices. Marriage in this period was a socially and religiously significant event, uniting families and securing lineage, and vessels such as this played a central role in its rites. Minimalist in form and design, this vessel is an elegant and poignant display piece. Provenance Collection of Julien Bessonneau (1842–1916), France Thence by descent Jean-Pierre Léveilley, Angers, acquired from the beneficiaries of the above collection in the 1970s–80s 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: 11.82 in (30 cm)Width: 11.82 in (30 cm)Depth: 13.78 in (35 cm)
  • Style:
    Classical Greek (In the Style Of)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Pottery
  • Period:
    15th Century and Earlier
  • Date of Manufacture:
    c.3-4th centuries BC
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use.
  • Seller Location:
    London, GB
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: 433891stDibs: LU1052248082262

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