Bottle

Item number Ce245 from the MOA: University of British Columbia.

Public

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Data
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Description

Clay bottle consisting of a globular body with flat base, narrow neck with flared rim connected to shoulder by flat handle. Light brown surface with painted decoration in various states of preservation. Top of rim decorated with concentric circles; handle has zigzag pattern; shoulder decorated with tongues. Above and below figured scene are borders of horizontal lines; bottom of base in concentric circles. Figured scene consists of a male siren with spread wings in center, facing right, with anatomical details. Body primarily dark brown with red-brown areas on wings, throat, and breast. Leading edge of wings decorated with circles of red-brown. To right of siren is a water fowl, facing left with details. To left is a possible third figure. Between figures and in empty spaces are traces of dots and rosettes.

History Of Use

Aryballoi served as containers for expensive liquids such as oils and perfumes. They were primarily intended for everyday use but also served as grave goods.

Cultural Context

utilitarian; funerary

Iconographic Meaning

Siren in centre of composition should be flanked on both sides. The decoration that remains looks like a female head facing right (perhaps another siren).