Exaleiptron
Exaleiptron: about 500 B.C.; lid: 20th century
A simple pattern around the mouth provides the only decoration on this Athenian *exaleiptron.* Most of the pottery produced in Athens was covered in black glaze only. The absence of figural decoration allows the skill of the potting and the quality of the glaze itself to stand out.
The chemical and petrological composition of Athenian clay gave a deep, rich darkness, translucence, and durability to its black glaze, characteristics that other pottery producers were not able to equal. This quality gave Athenian producers a distinct market advantage over their competitors. This vase, however, is an example of a mishap in the firing process. Conditions were not right in the kiln, and the glaze has an almost greenish tint over most of the vase.
Taking its name from the Greek verb meaning "to anoint," an *exaleiptron* was used to hold scented liquid. The curved shoulder of the vessel, with its deep overhanging lip, prevented the liquid from spilling.
The chemical and petrological composition of Athenian clay gave a deep, rich darkness, translucence, and durability to its black glaze, characteristics that other pottery producers were not able to equal. This quality gave Athenian producers a distinct market advantage over their competitors. This vase, however, is an example of a mishap in the firing process. Conditions were not right in the kiln, and the glaze has an almost greenish tint over most of the vase.
Taking its name from the Greek verb meaning "to anoint," an *exaleiptron* was used to hold scented liquid. The curved shoulder of the vessel, with its deep overhanging lip, prevented the liquid from spilling.
Images courtesy of The Metropolitan Museum of Art (CC0)