Greek art,, Attica, late Geometric, last quarter of 8th century BC
Ex Colonel Varnay Collection (1876-1963), then by descent; Sale Aisne Enchères, Soissons, 30 November 2023, n.278
This large olpe is richly decorated, typical of the Geometric period. The neck is decorated with two registers of chequered patterns and a register of complex meanders. The body is decorated with hatched triangles, a chequered and a chevron band. The shoulder features a horizontal panel decorated with two seated figures on a chair, playing rattles, on either side of an indented shield resting on a central table. The decoration covering the entire surface of the vase is made up of chequered patterns, cross-hatched rosettes, zigzags, triangles, lozenges and meanders. Two cabochon-shaped protuberances are centred on the shoulder. This large jug belongs to the Rattle group, characterised by rattle players and representing one of the earliest depictions of musicians in Greek art. Some very rare examples can be found in the Louvre, the British Museum and Athens.