Terracotta askos (flask with a spout) in the form of a cock

2nd half of 3rd century BCE

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 171

Askoi shaped like animals were commonly used as lamp fillers; the oil was introduced into the askos via the small inlet off to the side, and was then poured out through a tiny hole under the beak into the lamp in a smooth and controlled stream. Although Magenta ware is believed to have been made across the Graeco-Roman world, the prevalence with which animal-shaped askoi have been found in Italy suggests an Italic origin for this piece as well.

Artwork Details

Overview

References

Title: Terracotta askos (flask with a spout) in the form of a cock
Period: Hellenistic
Date: 2nd half of 3rd century BCE
Culture: Italic
Medium: Terracotta; Magenta Ware
Dimensions: h. 3 5/8 in (9.2 cm); w. 5 5/8 in (14.3 cm)
Classification: Vases
Credit Line: Rogers Fund, 1906
Object Number: 06.1021.265
Curatorial Department: Greek and Roman Art

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