Corinthian Black-Figured Pyxis

SKU: MS.0113

Origin: Mediterranean
Circa: c. early 6th century BC
Dimensions: 3.75" Height x 6.5" Width (9.5cms x 16.5cms)
Medium: Terracotta

Of waisted cylindrical form, with opposing horizontal flanged handles at the rim, and simply decorated with two registers of walking animals, this lovely Corinthian pyxis is almost geometric in nature. It features dots in the field, rays around the base, 'S's around the rim, and the inner bowl is lined with concentric circles. Various details are added in red throughout.

$8,000.00

Private collection, UK, acquired prior to 1996.

One handle restored. The other handle broken away. Repaired chips to rim. Chips and nicks overall with worn surface. Heavy wear and pitting on the interior.

A pyxis is a small round box that could be made of wood, bronze, ceramic, ivory or marble. Examples in ceramic such as this first appear in the Geometric period. The pyxis for the most part belonged predominantly to the world of women, both domestic and religious. They were often painted top to bottom in extravagant colour and elaborate pictures or designs. In the home, they were used to hold cosmetics, trinkets or jewellery, serving essential roles in the process of kosmesis (‘adornment’). However outside of the home they could be used for dispensing incense or by physicians to contain medicine.

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