Terracotta phiale (libation bowl)

Unknown

3rd century BCE · Terracotta · Greek and Roman Art

This distinctive type of phiale with twelve egg-shaped cavities and relief decoration on the rim derives from metal prototypes introduced to Greece from the East during the Archaic period. The Hellenistic form is attested in very rare examples of silver. The numerous terracotta counterparts that survive are connected especially with Tarentum. Heads of orientals alternate with scrollwork around the outer edge.

Artist

Unknown

Date

3rd century BCE

Medium

Terracotta

Culture

Greek, South Italian, Apulian

Department

Greek and Roman Art

Credit line

Rogers Fund, 1919