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Small terracotta amphora (jar)

ca. 800–750 BCE
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 151
An amphoriskos is a small amphora, or two-handled jar, that could serve as a gift in a tomb. Oversize versions of the same shape, with handles on the belly, served as grave markers. Large amphorae with handles placed on the belly or on the shoulder held women’s cremated remains, while men’s ashes were placed in amphorae with neck handles. Attic funerary practices are known for the close connection between specific pottery shapes and the gender of the deceased.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Small terracotta amphora (jar)
  • Period: Late Geometric I
  • Date: ca. 800–750 BCE
  • Culture: Greek, Attic
  • Medium: Terracotta
  • Dimensions: H. 6 3/8 in. (16.2 cm)
    diameter with handles 4 5/8 in. (11.7 cm)
    diameter without handles 3 7/16 in. (8.7 cm)
  • Classification: Vases
  • Credit Line: Funds from various donors, 1923
  • Object Number: 23.72.1
  • Curatorial Department: Greek and Roman Art

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