Ancient Mediterranean, Cyprus, Iron Age, Cypro-Geometric period, ca. 850 to 650 BCE. A delightful pottery juglet with a mostly spherical, but subtly barrel-shaped body, which flattens slightly on either side of the handle and then rises to form a petite, protruding nub. The flared spout is supported by a slender, tubular neck, while an arched, ribbon-form handle connects the base of the neck to the shoulder. The cream-colored buff of the clay is adorned by black-painted, concentric circles that surround each nub, highlighting the vessel's round form, as well as line the handle and encircle the neck and rim. Liberal remains of a thick red band additionally embellish the area just below the rim. Judging from its diminutive size and narrow neck with a petite mouth, this jug was likely used for storing oil or some other valuable liquid. Size: 2.6" W x 3.8" H (6.6 cm x 9.7 cm)

Through the influence of imported Mycenaean wares and interactions between local and foreign potters around 1400 BCE, Mycenaean decorating motifs became integrated into local Cypriot styles and continued to influence decorated pottery for centuries afterward. This jug, then, reflects both the local traditions of Cyprus and Mycenaean influence. The shape itself, although rather generic, probably evolved from earlier local Cypriot wares. The painted decorations, however, show marked Mycenaean influence: the closed spiral is a favored Mycenaean motif representing waves and never occurred in Cypriot pottery before the Late Bronze Age (ca. 1,600-1,050 BCE). The bars on the handle are a common decorative motif, appearing on both pre-1600 BCE Cypriot pottery as well as on Mycenaean vessels.

Cf. British Museum (1876,0909.74).

Provenance: East Coast collection, New York Gallery, New York City, New York, USA; ex-Arte Primitivo, New York, New York, USA, December 15, 2022, lot 387; ex-private Norwood, New Jersey, USA collection, acquired in August 2013; ex-J.P. Willborg collection, Stockholm, Sweden

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#179496

Chipping to rim with small area of professional restoration. Some nicks and pitting in areas, but otherwise mostly intact with an excellent presentation. Nice remaining pigments. Old Arte Primitivo label on underside of base.