Greek Chalcedony Dolphin Pendant

Hemispherical in form with decoration in relief featuring fluting alternating with nymphs and symbols beneath an architectural border, cracked and chipped. 257 grams, 11.9 cm wide



Private Dutch collection, 1970-2010. Ex private Dutch collection, 2010-2018.

The term ‘Megarian’ bowl applied to this type of pottery is a modern convention for academic purposes. The name ‘Megarian’ was first given to this type of mould-made relief bowl in the late 19th century, because some of the first known examples were said to have come from the city of Megara. In reality, such terracotta items originated in Athens in the 3rd quarter of the 3rd century BC, and from that point were made in all major Greek cities for the duration of the Hellenistic period and into the Roman, especially in Alexandria. This relief-decorated pottery became more popular than painted pottery during the Hellenistic period. This class of hemispherical bowl was made in moulds and was characterised by decoration imitating metallic beakers. When the finished bowl was taken from the mould, it was probably dipped in varnish or dull paint and fired. According to Prof. P.V.C. Baur, the stamps used for making moulds were not produced in every manufacturing centre of ‘Megarian’ bowls, but were made only in important centres such as Athens, Pergamon, Antioch and Alexandria, and sold to potters throughout the Hellenistic world. The fact that the edge of the bowl is turned outwards suggests Athenian production, and a comparison with the decorative petals on the Delian Cup (no.1913.199 of the Rebecca Darlington collection) is also plausible.

In the form of a stag or other horned quadruped facing left, shallow geometric cells forming the eyes and other stylised anatomical detailing; mounting lug to reverse. 55 grams, 72 mm



Acquired 1980-2015. Ex Abelita family collection.

Polished and incised with semi-naturalistic anatomical detailing; intaglio to base displaying archer's bow and quiver; drilled for suspension. 2.54 grams, 15 mm



Acquired 1969-1999. From the private collection of the late Mr S.M., London, UK, thence by descent.