Classic Greek Attic Red and black decorated vase or ewer with a Nemeian Lion on the side. Stylized but still a fine quality decoration. This is probably representative of the Nemean Lion that Hercules had to hunt. Initially, Hercules was required to complete ten labors, not twelve. King Eurystheus decided Hercules'' first task would be to bring him the skin of an invulnerable lion which terrorized the hills around Nemea When Hercules got to Nemea and began tracking the terrible lion, he soon discovered his arrows were useless against the beast. Hercules picked up his club and went after the lion. Following it to a cave which had two entrances, Hercules blocked one of the doorways, then approached the fierce lion through the other. Grasping the lion in his mighty arms, and ignoring its powerful claws, he held it tightly until he''d choked it to death. In very good overall condition. Some paint loss and a minor chip on the rim. Stands 4'' tall and is circa 300 BC. Status: For Sale Reference#: 525_2544 Condition: vg minor chip Year: 300BC

Antiquities
Ancient Greek