Cypriot Pyriform Miniature Black-on-Red Ware Alabastron

Object Description

A Cypriot, miniature alabastron of typical black-on-red form. It features an elongated body, pyriform in shape that leads to a flaring trumpet mouth. There is a pronounced ridge at the junction of body and neck, formed of three indented grooves. An applied handle has been added to the body. The alabastron stands on a small, flattened base, slightly carinated as it joins the body. The whole of the vessel is made of a buff clay with a vibrant red-brown slip and covered in linear decoration of black pigment.

Date: Circa 1050 BC – 600 BC

Object History

From a collection acquired on the UK art market from various auction houses and collections mostly before 2000. From an important Cambridgeshire estate; thence by descent.

Object Condition

Excellent. Some minute chipping consistent with age. Vivid colouring.

Object Details