An exceptional piece of Ancient South Italian pottery. This vessel is referred to as a Thistle Mug or Thistle Cup. It sits on a high foot with a bulbous base and a beautiful flaring rim. Attached to the rim is an intact double shaped handled. Around the rim we find a band of flowers and just below the egg and dot motif. The typical Lady of Fashion adorns this vessel. As per Prof. Trendall, 1 in 3 Apulian vases were decorated with this mysterious figure. On this vessel the Lady of Fashion is centered by a berried laurel branch on the left and an ivy and flower on the right. Just below the handle we find a scrolling palmette. Measures 4.5 inches tall and is in good condition said for some flaking of the black lustrous finish around the rim and handle. Very small trace of calcium deposits on the inside of the cup.
