Red figure perfumed oil flask by the Clinique painter
This hand-painted vase is a striking reproduction of an ancient Attic aryballos (perfumed oil flask) by the Clinique painter featuring a detailed medical scene. Louvre Museum (CA 1989 ; CA 2183), c. 480 - 470 BC.
The vase captures a scene from an ancient medical clinic, showcasing the artistry of classical Greek pottery. The shoulder of the vase features two nude Erotes, their mature forms adorned with light-colored hairbands, flying gracefully towards each other—a symbol of love and healing.
The central imagery displays an intimate and detailed scene: a young man draped in a himation sits on a klismos chair, reaching for the arm of a bearded man leaning on a staff, offering care and support. At their feet, a bronze bowl sits, perhaps part of the medical treatment. A seated figure with a himation wrapped around his lower body holds a staff while another bearded man raises a hand in a speaking gesture, contributing to the lively dialogue.
In the background, a bearded dwarf, nude except for a hare slung over his shoulder, adds a unique character to the composition, standing near a figure who leans on his staff. Every figure is rendered with great attention to detail, bringing a moment from ancient life vividly into the present.
A testament to the beauty of ancient craftsmanship, this vase is both an artistic and historical treasure for collectors of fine ceramics.
First produced at the ATTIC BLACK workshop in December 2019.
Dimensions H: 9,3 cm, Max D : 9,2 cm