Messapian Terracotta Amphora

$751.46

A  South Italian Messapian amphora potted in sand-coloured terracotta. The vessel features an out-turned rim, a wide flaring neck with two relatively short applied side handles. The body is carinated and stands on a short flared foot. The decoration is relatively simple and comprises several horizontal bands of varying width in umber, and a snake-like pattern on each side of the handles.

Period: Circa 5th- 3rd century BC
Condition: Complete and intact with signs of aging and minor chips to the surface.

SOLD

SKU: FP-134 Category: Tags: , ,

According to the Latin historian Polibio, the pre-Roman Apulia (modern Puglia) was divided in three regions, the Daunia in the North, the Peucezia in the center and the Messapia in the South. This territorial devision has been archeologically confirmed by different styles of ceramic found in Apulian sepulchres. Shapes and decorative motives are shown varying from region to region, expressing different cultural aspects. The Messapian ceramic displays a simplified decorative motive, usually consisting in monochromatic bands or panels. Although the Messapian pottery production was directly influenced by Greek South Italian colonies, it also held a peculiar and distinctive Italic aesthetic.

Weight 1500 g
Dimensions H 21 cm
Culture

Pottery and Porcelain

Region