Beautiful ancient Lebes Gamikos from Southern Italy. Artifact dates to circa the 5th century BC. The Messapians were well known for their pottery making skills and are widely known for their famous trozella shaped pottery. This lidded vase has floral decoration on the lid and band on shoulder and base. Colour and pottery is typical of Messapian art. Measures 5" inches tall
The Lebes Gamikos or “Marriage Bowl”, characterized by the two high upright handles, was used in the wedding ceremony for ritual bridal waters (sprinkling and purification), and is one of the major indicators of such a ceremony whenever it appears.
Provenance: Private Florida collection formed in the 60's, US art auction.
