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Perfume vessel (alabastron) with linear decoration
Greek, East Greek
Archaic period
6th century B.C.
Medium/Technique
Ceramic
Dimensions
18.5 cm (7 5/16 in.)
Credit Line
Anonymous gift in memory of Miss Grace Nelson
Accession Number62.333
CollectionsAncient Greece and Rome
ClassificationsVessels
DescriptionThis alabastron has an elongated form terminating in a rounded bottom. Two lugs emerge from the upper part of its body, each painted black. Its narrow neck is topped by a wide, flattened mouth, around which runs a single line of reserved glaze. Three sets of three black glaze lines (the center line being the widest) encircle the vase at regular intervals, creating a simple geometric decorative scheme that emphasizes the shape of the vessel overall. The form of this alabastron imitates that of Egyptian stone alabastra.
ProvenanceBy date unknown: with George Allen, 2219 St. James Place, Philadelphia 3, Pa.; gift to MFA in Memory of Miss Grace Nelson, April 11, 1962