Faience aryballos (oil flask) in the form of a head wearing an animal skin

6th century BCE

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 171

This unusual vase shows a human head of which all but the area of the eyes, nose, and mouth is enclosed in the head of an animal. The softness of the pelt is indicated by the way in which it tightly fits the human head. The small ears and spots are further animal attributes. It is difficult to identify the figure. It may possibly be a very Egyptianized interpretation of Herakles wearing the lion skin.

Artwork Details

Overview

References

Title: Faience aryballos (oil flask) in the form of a head wearing an animal skin
Period: Archaic
Date: 6th century BCE
Culture: East Greek
Medium: Faience
Dimensions: H.: 1 3/4 in. (4.4 cm)
Classification: Miscellaneous-Faience
Credit Line: Rogers Fund, 1941
Object Number: 41.162.120
Curatorial Department: Greek and Roman Art

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