Ancient Greek
Lekythos (Oil Jar)
about 400 BCE
An ancient Greek black-glazed terracotta lekythos — the slender oil-jar used to pour perfumed oil at Greek funerary rituals. Produced in Athens or its colonies in the 5th century BC, the vessel's sleek body and dark glossy slip represent the everyday sculpture of Classical Greek craftsmanship. It is a reference piece in the Art Institute of Chicago's ancient Mediterranean collection.
Exhibition Venue
Image source: Art Institute of Chicago