Description
Ancient Cypriot Bichrome Ware Amphora – Black-on-Red Pottery, Cypro-Archaic, ca. 800–600 BC
A beautifully preserved ancient Cypriot bichrome ware amphora dating to the Cypro-Archaic period (ca. 800–600 BC). This elegant vessel is crafted in thin-walled red-brown clay, coated with a matching slip and decorated in black pigment with finely painted parallel lines and concentric circle motifs. Featuring lateral lug handles, this piece exemplifies the sophisticated pottery style of Black-on-Red Cypriot ceramic tradition.
Details:
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Culture: Cypriot
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Period: Cypro-Archaic, ca. 800–600 BC
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Material: Terracotta (black-on-red bichrome ware)
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Technique: Hand-formed, painted with black geometric motifs
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Height: (16 cm) 6.5 inches
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Features: Lateral lug handles, linear and concentric circle decoration
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Condition: Intact with light surface wear consistent with age
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Provenance: UK private collection, acquired before 1960
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Comparative Example: cf. The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Accession No. 74.51.873
This piece represents a key phase in Cypriot ceramic development, with black-on-red pottery reaching its artistic zenith between 1000 and 600 BC. Such vessels were often used for ritual, domestic, or funerary purposes, making this a valuable artifact for collectors and historians of Ancient Mediterranean archaeology.
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