A Black-Figure Shoulder Lekythos (oil flask) by the Taleides Painter, ca. 550-540 BC
This exquisite piece is inspired by an original black-figure shoulder lekythos attributed to the Taleides Painter, crafted between 550-540 BC. The scene on the body depicts Dionysus seated to the right on a diphros, bearded and wreathed, adorned in a long chiton and a red mantle draped over his shoulders. In his left hand, he raises a large, slender drinking horn as his followers dance merrily around him, likely enlivened by the smell or taste of wine. A maenad, dressed in a spotted and panelled red peplos overlaid with a fawn skin (nebris), faces the god with her right arm clasping her side, her left arm raised in jubilation. Flanking the group are two lively satyrs, adding energy to the scene. On the shoulder, a siren stands between two grazing long-horned wild goats.
The vase is adorned with finely preserved details, with bands of added red encircling the neck, body, and foot, all elements true to the aesthetics of the 6th century BCE. This lekythos, stands out for its size, quality, and well-preserved details, exemplifying the mastery of the Taleides Painter, who is known to have decorated more than ten shoulder lekythoi.
Modern Interpretation
Created for the first time in May 2012 on the occasion of the ATTIC BLACK shop opening, this modern reproduction is a testament to our dedication to preserving ancient artistry. We are proud to offer limited runs of this unique piece every 6-8 months, allowing collectors to own a timeless masterpiece.
Dimensions: Height 18 cm, Max Length 11 cm
Provenance of the Original
The original lekythos was sold at auction on November 5, 2011, by Cahn Auktionen AG in Basel, fetching 90,000 CHF (€74,933). Its provenance includes the collections of N.C., Lugano, P.P., Lugano, Donati, Lugano (1992), and Baron H. von Schoen, German Ambassador to Greece (1922-1926).