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Oil flask (aryballos) in the shape of the head of Herakles wearing the lion skin
Greek, East Greek
Archaic Period
late 6th century B.C.
Medium/Technique
Ceramic
Dimensions
8 cm (3 1/8 in.)
Credit Line
Arthur Mason Knapp Fund
Accession Number1970.64
CollectionsAncient Greece and Rome
ClassificationsVessels
DescriptionThis vase takes the shape of the head of Herakles wearing his lionskin. The hero’s face is just visible within the jaws of the lion, whom he defeated in an early battle. The lion’s ears frame the mouth of the vessel, which is situated on the top of the head. The ferocity of the lion – and, by association, Herakles himself – is conveyed especially by his powerful jaw and sharp teeth. Traces of red paint can be seen on much of the surface of the vessel, especially just under the lion’s nose.
ProvenanceBy 1970: with Mathias Komor, 19 East 71st Street, New York, N.Y. 10021 (said to come from Rhodes); purchased by MFA from Mathias Komor, March 11, 1970