The Greek colonies of southern Italy(known in antiquity as Magna Grecia) were marked by their initial allegiance to the ceramic styles of the Attic mainland. However, over the years, native traditions and innovations heavily influenced the works of Magna Grecian potters. Unorthodox forms and painting-styles were seamlessly merged with the standard Greek style, creating distinctive works of art unique to the Hellenistic world. This gorgeous hydria is decorated in a fashion characteristic of the Pasteum style. A nude male youth, crowned with a laurel wreath, sits upon a rocky outcropping covered by his tunic holding a small bird on his finger. A woman approaches from the other direction and looks upon the youth. This scene is framed below by a band of spiraling waves, a pattern repeated on the edge of the lip. The remainder of the body is decorated with a series of swirling palmette motifs, typical of Magna Grecian art. In antiquity, this lovely three-handled vessel would have been used to draw, transport and dispense water. Sometimes, such vessels were even used as cinerary urns, revealing how much they were adored and honored in antiquity. Surely such a marvelously painted vessel would have impressed and delighted all who gaze upon it as it continues to today. - (PF.6162)

Antiquities
Ancient Greek