Greek Attic black figure skyphos depicting Herakles in battle

G11

£2,400.00

Available

A black figure pottery skyphos cup painted to both sides with a depiction of Herakles slaying a warrior, possibly an Amazon. Herakles is identified by the Nemean lion pelt slung over his chest and the club he uses as a weapon to batter his opponent. Behind the two combatants are two olive trees and the scene is framed by a pair of palmettes to either side.

The skyphos may depict the 9th Labour of Herakles, the quest to retrieve the belt of the Amazon queen Hippolyte.

Culture
Greek, Athens, early 5th Century BC

Size
8.3 x 20.4 cms including handles

Condition
Intact with only minor surface wear, surface accretions to interior

Provenance
Ex. deceased estate, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, UK; acquired mid to late 20th Century

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