Vase in the form of a sleeping African (known as Ethiopian) boy [Cypriot] (74.51.2263) | Work of Art | Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History

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The Eastern Mediterranean, 1000 B.C.–1 A.D.

Vase in the form of a sleeping African (known as Ethiopian) boy, 3rd–2nd century B.C.
Cypriot
Terracotta; H. 8 3/16 in. (20.8 cm)
The Cesnola Collection, Purchased by subscription, 1874–76 (74.51.2263)

This sleeping boy's nakedness and exhausted state suggest that he is a slave or servant. Vases of this shape most likely held perfumed oils.

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Related Timeline(s)

• The Eastern Mediterranean, 1000 B.C.–1 A.D.

Related Thematic Essay(s)

• Africans in Ancient Greek Art

Related Index Terms

Geography/Place

Material and Technique

Subject Matter/Theme

• Figure, Nude

Technical Glossary

• Terracotta

Citation for this page:

"Vase in the form of a sleeping African (known as Ethiopian) boy [Cypriot] (74.51.2263)". In Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History. New York: The Metropolitan Museum of Art, 2000–. http://www.metmuseum.org/toah/hd/afrg/ho_74.51.2263.htm (January 2008)

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