Terracotta alabastron (perfume vase)
Woman and Nike at altar, each with phiale.
Offering libations seems to have been an important role for women. Here a Nike (personification of victory), who looks very much like an Athenian lady with wings, and a mortal counterpart flank an altar. Each holds a phiale (libation bowl). It is likely that the sacrifice is for the successful return of a warrior or athlete.
Offering libations seems to have been an important role for women. Here a Nike (personification of victory), who looks very much like an Athenian lady with wings, and a mortal counterpart flank an altar. Each holds a phiale (libation bowl). It is likely that the sacrifice is for the successful return of a warrior or athlete.
Artwork Details
- Title: Terracotta alabastron (perfume vase)
- Artist: Attributed to the Painter of Palermo 1162
- Period: Classical
- Date: ca. 480 BCE
- Culture: Greek, Attic
- Medium: Terracotta; red-figure
- Dimensions: H. 5 13/16 in. (14.7 cm); diameter 13/16 in. (2 cm)
- Classification: Vases
- Credit Line: Rogers Fund, 1941
- Object Number: 41.162.75
- Curatorial Department: Greek and Roman Art
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