This bail amphora (so-called due to the handle, with which it could be used to bail liquids) dates to Roman-occupied Campania and vividly illustrates the experimentation performed by regional artists. Pottery exports provided a great deal of wealth to trading cities and a wide diversity of styles and efforts exists. Here, the artist clearly has attempted to experiment with a red slip over the base painting, a trend not commonly seen in pottery from other Greek colonies or the mainland. Stylistically, this amphora displays four "Ladies of Fashion," a common decorative motif, but its workmanship shows a clear willingness to attempt new techniques in the interest of producing a more interesting final product. A great conversation piece and impressively large piece of Greek art!

AGE: 280-250 B.C.

CONDITION: Very nice as pictured. No breaks or repairs to the main body, although some wear to the paint in spots as evident above. Minor crack to the bail has been professionally repaired and is near-invisible.