Magna Graecia, Southern Italy, Apulia, Gnathian, ca. 340 BCE. In a word, jaw-dropping (ok, in a compound word). This stunning lidded Pyxis boasts a body of a nearly perfect spherical form, meticulously adorned with vertical ribs framed by thin bands of red and white pigment, the elegant lid with a finial that beautifully mimics the form of the vessel below, the entire vessel standing upon an extended pedestal base. The decorative technique used by the artisan of this piece is typical for pottery which called Gnathian, named for modern day Egnazia which was located on the Adriatic coast of Apulia. In the mid-nineteenth century, pottery with this style of decoration was found during excavations of the cemeteries of Egnazia and nearby Fasano. From that time on, these were known as the pottery of Egnazia, or Gnathia pottery, despite the fact that little of it was actually made at Egnazia. This piece is particularly mesmerizing for its iridescent, metallic sheen, expertly created decorative program, and sophisticated form. Size: 3.75" W x 4.875" H (9.5 cm x 12.4 cm)

Provenance: Ex - Prominent LA County collector who acquired these prior to 2000

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#116330

Bottom half repaired from several pieces. Tiny nicks to finial and rims. Minor surface wear as shown.