Vases Black-figure Amphora Amphora (storage jar): Gods and Attendants
Amphora (storage jar): Gods and Attendants
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Amphora (storage jar): Gods and Attendants

Black-figure the Affecter · Amphora · 540-530 BCE
Side A: Zeus and Hermes with Poseidon and attendants. Zeus is seated in a throne and holding a javelin. To the right is Hermes carrying a caduceus, and on the left stands Poseidon with his trident. A male figure stands to the far right (Dionysos?) wearing an animal pelt. Behind Poseidon on the left is a youth carrying a round garland in each hand. Great detail is given to Zeus's throne, the feet of which terminate in lion's paws. Underneath the seat is shown a sphinx and hare.

Side B: Zeus and Poseidon with attendants. Zeus and Poseidon stand in the center facing one another. Zeus holds his javelin while Poseidon carries a trident and fish. Both gods are bearded and wear long garments. To the right of Poseidon stands a nude youth, facing right and behind Zeus is a second nude youth, holding a javelin. On the far left is a draped bearded man with a fish.

The figural panels are bordered on the top by a lotus chain. A pattern of rays decorate the vessel's base. Added red and white occur throughout to highlight details including the individuals' dress, hair, and muscular definition.
Shape
Technique
Period
Archaic period
Date
540-530 BCE
Culture
Greek
Painter
Findspot
Ancient & Byzantine World, Europe, Attica
Museum
Harvard Art Museums
Accession Number
1977.216.2244
Image Source
harvard
Images courtesy of The Metropolitan Museum of Art (CC0)