Red-Figure Storage Vessel (Pelike)
Artist
Unknown
Date375-330 BC
MediumTerracotta
DimensionsOverall: 14 1/4 x 7 in. (36.2 x 17.8 cm)
ClassificationsGreco-Roman
Credit LineGift of Walter P. Chrysler, Jr.
Object number77.401
Terms
- Red
Collections
On View
On viewLabel TextRed-Figure Vessel (Pelike) Greek, 375–330 B.C.E. Terracotta Gift of Walter P. Chrysler, Jr. 77.401 Almost all Greek vases were made to hold one of three liquids—wine, water, or olive oil. The swelling form of the Greek vase also offered an extraordinary, 360-degree surface to decorate. Most artists filled these wrap-around bands with vivid depictions of the gods, from stately gatherings to dramatic scenes of cosmic combat. To make black-figure vases, artists painted solid forms with a type of watered-down clay that darkened when fired, and then carved geometric lines to provide details. Artists made red-figure designs by painting out the backgrounds completely and then brushing on fluid lines to create shading and realistic details. Since the Greeks prized the naturalistic human form, the red-figure vases became increasingly popular after the technique was invented around 530 B.C.E.
