Minimalistic Duck Shaped Jug, Phylakopi I culture. Cycladic Early Bronze Age, EC III, 2300 – 2000 BC.
Inspired by an Early Cycladic vessel from Phylakopi I on Melos (ca. 2300–2000 BCE), this duck-shaped askos (jug) combines sculptural simplicity with refined prehistoric decoration. Its compact rounded body, lateral spout, and small loop handle reflect a form used for pouring small quantities of liquids, possibly in both domestic and ritual contexts.
Bird-shaped vessels held symbolic significance in Bronze Age Aegean culture and were among the distinctive ceramic products exported from the Cyclades to major centres such as Knossos on Crete. The original prototype is housed in the British Museum (GR 1865.12-14.39 BM Cat Vases A330).
The surface is decorated with hand-incised spirals and geometric motifs inspired by Early Cycladic traditions. A deep dark glaze highlights the incised decoration, recalling the burnished surfaces of the ancient originals.
Dimensions: H 10 cm, maxL 13 cm