Terracotta hydria (water jar)

Attributed to the Group of Naples 3227
ca. 350–320 BCE
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 162
On the body, return of a mounted warrior
On the shoulder, tritons
Under the handles, head of a woman

An Italic warrior, wearing the characteristic plumed helmet, is greeted by a woman who holds the horse's bridle and an attendant carrying the oinochoe and phiale (jug and libation bowl) for an offering. The scene is remarkable for the freshness of the color. Of equal note are the triton and tritoness on the shoulder. The rarity of marine mythology in South Italian vase-painting contrasts greatly with Athenian practice.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Terracotta hydria (water jar)
  • Artist: Attributed to the Group of Naples 3227
  • Period: Late Classical
  • Date: ca. 350–320 BCE
  • Culture: Greek, South Italian, Campanian
  • Medium: Terracotta; red-figure
  • Dimensions: H. 23 1/2 in. (59.7 cm)
  • Classification: Vases
  • Credit Line: Purchase, 1901
  • Object Number: 01.8.12
  • Curatorial Department: Greek and Roman Art

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