Oinochoe Handle

This silver handle takes the form of Triton, a mythological creature, half-man, half-sea serpent. Now detached from the vessel of which it was once part, Triton’s scaly lower body serves as the functional part of the handle, and the acanthus leaves from which the torso rises would have hidden the join at the rim. Triton's torso would have projected as a decorative element above the mouth, and gilding elaborates much of its surface. The figure probably held a trident in its left hand, a frequent attribute of sea beings.

The form of the handle suggests that it was originally attached to an oinochoe (pitcher). Such an elaborate pouring vessel would have been part of an ornate set of serving and drinking vessels used at banquets or symposia.