Terracotta bell-krater (bowl for mixing wine and water)

Unknown

late 5th century BCE–early 4th century BCE · Terracotta · Greek and Roman Art

Obverse, Ariadne and two satyrs Reverse, three youths Ariadne is often recognizable through her recumbent position. She was asleep when Theseus abandoned her on the island of Naxos. And she is often depicted as reclining with Dionysos. The presence of two satyrs indicates her identity here. She reclines under a vine arbor, another reminder of Dionysos. It is interesting that one of the satyrs carries a torch, suggesting a night scene. The other holds a lyre, which may refer to the theater.

Artist

Unknown

Date

late 5th century BCE–early 4th century BCE

Medium

Terracotta

Culture

Greek, Attic

Department

Greek and Roman Art

Credit line

Rogers Fund, 1962