Black-Figure Neck-Amphora of Panathenaic Shape (Storage Vessel)

525–500 BC

Black-Figure Neck-Amphora of Panathenaic Shape (Storage Vessel), 525–500 BC. Greek, Attic. Ceramic; overall: 41.4 cm (16 5/16 in.). The Cleveland Museum of Art, Gift of J. H. Wade 1923.644 The narrow neck and base of amphorae of this shape probably derive from vessels used to transport oil and wine long distances. Here, the painted decoration accentuates the shape, with simple rays at the base, tongues on the shoulder, and a double lotus-and-palmette chain on the neck. Added red rings separate these patterns, with black gloss covering most of the exterior; only the upper surface of the mouth is reserved. Similarly shaped vases decorated with Athena on the front and athletic or equestrian scenes on the back were filled with Athenian olive oil and awarded as prizes to victors in the Panathenaic games. The shape of this amphora mimics those of larger, figured prize vases.