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Pyxis (cosmetic box) and cover
Greek
Late Classical Period
about 350–320 B.C.
Medium/Technique
Ceramic, West Slope Ware
Dimensions
Height: 31.5 cm (12 3/8 in.)
Credit Line
Catharine Page Perkins Fund
Accession Number97.376a-b
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsAncient Greece and Rome
ClassificationsVessels
Description(B) Cover. Top decorated with vines and egg-patterns embossed in paste; on the side are two necklaces of pendants.
(A) Pyxis. The sides rise within the cover to the height of its upper projecting rim.
Label text:
Relief ornament in thinned clay slip, which was originally gilded
In the late Classical period at Athens, glossy black glazed ceramics like this imitated the elegant shapes of silver or bronze vessels. The relief ornament was originally covered with gold leaf to increase the illusion of precious metal.
(A) Pyxis. The sides rise within the cover to the height of its upper projecting rim.
Label text:
Relief ornament in thinned clay slip, which was originally gilded
In the late Classical period at Athens, glossy black glazed ceramics like this imitated the elegant shapes of silver or bronze vessels. The relief ornament was originally covered with gold leaf to increase the illusion of precious metal.
ProvenanceBy date unknown: with Edward Perry Warren (according to Warren's records: Sent from Athens, perhaps from Boeotia.); 1897: purchased by MFA from Edward Perry Warren for $ 25,000.00 (this figure is the total price for MFA 97.285-97.442 and 97.1104)