Northern Italy, Etruria, Etruscan, ca. 7th to 4th century BCE. A rather large Etruscan bucchero oinochoe! A magnificent form with a bulbous base adorned with a register of incised vertical striations above six elegant reverse V-shaped designs, sitting on short flared foot, with flaring rim, pinched large pouring spout and sweeping, flat handle framed by pointed details where it meets the rim. A classic piece with beautiful stylings and characteristically Etruscan monochrome black finish intended to mimic the sheen of stone or metal. An incredible work of artistry! Fabulous provenance; note the Rome customs export tag and see provenance below. Size: 11-1/8" (28.3 cm).

Provenance: Ex-private William O'Keefe collection, Randolph, NJ, acquired July 15, 1977 from Trails End Trading Post in Santa Fe, New Mexico. This piece came from the estate of a retired University of Pennsylvania archaeologist who acquired it on a sanctioned dig in Italy long ago. Note the customs tag "ROMA" tied to the handle.

#108694

Repair to handle, section of spout and pointed detail on rim. Normal surface wear and some minor losses to edges and base.