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White-Ground Lekythos (Oil Vessel): Atalanta and Erotes
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Known as "white-ground" because of the white clay slip applied as a surface for figural decoration, vases of this type give some idea of the appearance of lost ancient large-scale wall paintings. Both remarkably well preserved and masterfully composed, the images cover the entire circumference of the vase. At the center, Atalanta, the virgin huntress renowned for both her speed and her opposition to marriage, races to the right while looking back at Eros, the winged god of love; both figures are named. This Eros, bounding forward, tries to crown her, while two additional Erotes (also named) further hem her in. Love will win.
| Artist / Maker | Douris |
|---|---|
| Date | c. 500–490 BCE |
| Culture / Origin | Greek, Attic |
| Medium | ceramic |
| Dimensions | Overall: 31.8 cm (12 1/2 in.) |
| Department | Greek and Roman Art |
| Type | Ceramic |
About the Artist
Douris (Greek, Attic, active c. 500–470 BCE) Full biography →
Provenance & Source
Image & data: Cleveland Museum of Art, CC0 / Public Domain.
Condition
A detailed condition report and high-resolution photography are available from our specialists in advance of the sale.
Shipping & Collection
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