Cypriot Geometric Terracotta Jar

Hollow-formed in the shape of a hare at rest with long ears parallel to the spine, vent to the chest; with spot markings to the flanks. 82 grams, 86 mm



Acquired on the German art market, 1989-1995. with The Museum Gallery, 19 Bury Place, London, WC1A 2JB, 1998-2003. Property of a London based academic, 2003-present.

Mould-made aryballoi (perfume flasks) in the shapes of animals were popular in Greece in the 7th and 6th centuries B.C. Aristocratic men gave real hares as gifts to younger male lovers; this vessel might have performed a similar function.

Including standing female with painted collar, and other types; each mounted on a custom-made display stand. 91 grams total, 63-94 mm including stand



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.

Modelled with wide and squat body; raised, biforal handle, saddle-shaped on top and grooved on the front with cross-hatch below; small projections emerging from the sides and an incised zigzag line around the lower body. 170 grams, 13 cm wide



Ex Carlton collection, Los Angeles, acquired 1965-1980. Acquired from Artemis Gallery, Colorado, USA, 21 November 2017, lot 24. Property of a South Australian private collector, with collection reference 17.08. Accompanied by detailed collector's catalogue pages including description and photograph. Accompanied by an Artemis certificate of authenticity dated 27 November 2017.

Di Genarro notes that the pottery forms appearing as standard grave goods are designed for containing, serving and drinking a beverage, which suggests the consumption of wine as a focus of funerary ideology.