Black-Figure Nikosthenic Amphora (Storage Vessel): Dancing Youths; Sphinxes and Lions; Satyrs and Maenads
Nikosthenes (Greek, Attic, active c. 545–510 BC) and Painter N, Thiasos Group (Greek, c. 530–510 BC)c. 530–510 BCE
The Cleveland Museum of Art
Cleveland, United States
The distinctive shape of this amphora—wide strap handles, conical neck, and ribs running around the upper body—is a trademark of the potter Nikosthenes, who signed his name below the partially restored handle (together with the verb <em>EPOIESEN</em>, for “made”). Nikosthenes signed nearly 150 surviving vases, more than any other named potter or vase-painter. Made in Athens with an Etruscan clientele in mind, Nikosthenic amphorae emulate precious metal and ceramic bucchero vases made in Etruria (central Italy), where many examples have been discovered. The painted figures include dancing youths (on the neck), sphinxes between lions (on the shoulder), and a continuous procession of dancing satyrs alternating with women (on the body).
- Title: Black-Figure Nikosthenic Amphora (Storage Vessel): Dancing Youths; Sphinxes and Lions; Satyrs and Maenads
- Creator: Nikosthenes (Greek, Attic, active c. 545–510 BC), Painter N, Thiasos Group (Greek, c. 530–510 BC)
- Date Created: c. 530–510 BCE
- Physical Dimensions: Diameter: 16.9 cm (6 5/8 in.); Overall: 31.1 cm (12 1/4 in.); Diameter of rim: 13.3 cm (5 1/4 in.); Diameter of foot: 10.7 cm (4 3/16 in.)
- Provenance: The Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland, OH
- Type: Ceramic
- Rights: CC0
- External Link: https://clevelandart.org/art/1974.10
- Medium: ceramic
- Inscriptions: inscription Under handle A/B:
- Fun Fact: The painter of this vase decorated nearly every available surface; the undecorated handle section is modern.
- Department: Greek and Roman Art
- Culture: Greek, Attic
- Credit Line: Purchase from the J. H. Wade Fund
- Collection: GR - Greek
- Accession Number: 1974.10
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