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Alabastron (oil flask): Black Archer with Palm Tree

White-ground Alabastron · 480-470 BCE

This small oil flask depicts a lone black archer standing against a white-ground background with his arms outstretched holding an axe in his right hand and a bow in his left. He wears patterned trousers, reminiscent of foreign dress depicted in other vases, and a cuirass with shoulder flaps, tied by a black belt. His quiver is strapped to his waist. His head is turned to the left, curly hair rendered by simple black dots. To his right is a small table. On the side opposite him is a tall palm tree with a rippling trunk.

Shape

Alabastron

Technique

White-ground

Period

Classical period, Early

Date

480-470 BCE

Culture

Greek

Dimensions

H: 15.40 cm W: 5.50 cm