Black-Gloss Mesomphalic Phiale (Libation Bowl): Apotheosis of Herakles

200s BC

Black-Gloss Mesomphalic Phiale (Libation Bowl): Apotheosis of Herakles, 200s BC. South Italian, Campanian (Calenian). Ceramic; diameter: 20.6 cm (8 1/8 in.); overall: 4.4 cm (1 3/4 in.). The Cleveland Museum of Art, Purchase from the J. H. Wade Fund 1926.515 Four four-horse chariots proceed around the interior of this libation bowl, each driven by a winged Nike (Victory) and accompanied by a flying Eros. Each carries a different figure—Athena, Herakles, Ares, and Dionysos—and small animals race along before the horses. The appearance of Herakles with these Olympians suggests his apotheosis. This type of glossy ceramic vessel likely imitates costlier objects made of precious metal.