Proto-Corinthian Aryballos in the Shape of a Recumbent Ram

A ram resting with his legs tucked under his body forms the body of this Corinthian plastic vase. Plastic vases, vessels made in the form of a human, animal, or mythological being, were popular in the Greek world from about 650 to 550 B.C. Although such vessels were made in many places, Corinth was a leading manufacturing center.

Rams were a favorite shape for Corinthian potters of plastic vases, and potters of this period produced some of the finest examples. This ram's head receives special attention, with its curling horns, fuzzy curls on the forehead, and the elaboration of the muzzle. Both the resting pose and the use of rows of dots to indicate fleece are typical features. This vase's large size, however, and the ram's position--with its head turned to the side--are unusual.

The narrow opening of the plastic vases, which held perfumed oil, was designed to restrict the flow of this precious commodity. Although Corinthian potters preferred a simple hole in the vase, they also added spouted mouths as seen on this vase.