Red-Figure Column Krater (Mixing Vessel): Satyrs Pursuing Maenads

440–430 BC

Red-Figure Column Krater (Mixing Vessel): Satyrs Pursuing Maenads, 440–430 BC. Attributed to Naples Painter (Greek, Attic, active c. 450–430 BC). Ceramic; overall: 41.5 cm (16 5/16 in.). The Cleveland Museum of Art, Gift of J. H. Wade 1924.533 Two satyr-maenad pairs rush across this vase, similar but not identical to one another. The leading satyr is balding and infibulated, the trailing one more hirsute; the leading maenad carries a thyrsos, the trailing one two torches. On the reverse, a stock scene appears, with three youths standing, as if in conversation. The column krater takes its name from the column-like struts supporting the handles and rim.