Greek bell krater

Greek bell krater
ITEM: Bell krater
MATERIAL: Pottery
CULTURE: Greek
PERIOD: 4th Century B.C
DIMENSIONS: 185 mm x 200 mm diameter
CONDITION: Good condition, repaired
PROVENANCE: Ex Dutch private collection, acquired in 1970s

Comes with Certificate of Authenticity and Export Licence. If you are from outside the European Union, we will have to apply for the export licence again for your country, this takes 3 to 5 weeks and has a cost of 5% of the hammer price, this amount will be added to the final invoice.

A Greek bell krater is a type of ancient pottery used primarily for mixing wine with water during symposia, which were social gatherings and drinking parties. Originating in the 5th century BCE, bell kraters are characterized by their distinctive shape: a wide, flaring mouth that curves inward, resembling an inverted bell, hence the name. They typically have a broad, rounded body, two horizontal handles just below the rim, and a short foot. The form of the bell krater allowed for easy mixing and serving of wine, making it a central piece in the ritual of communal drinking and social interaction in ancient Greek culture.

Bell kraters are notable for their elaborate painted decorations, which provide valuable insights into Greek art and mythology. The scenes depicted on these vessels often include mythological narratives, daily life, athletic competitions, and revelry. The red-figure technique, which became prominent in the late 6th century BCE, was commonly used for these kraters. This method involved painting the figures in a red slip against a black background, allowing for greater detail and realism in the depiction of human figures and activities. The images on bell kraters not only served an aesthetic purpose but also conveyed cultural values and stories to those who used them.

The social significance of the bell krater extends beyond its practical use. In the context of a symposium, the krater was a symbol of hospitality and intellectual exchange. Mixing wine with water was a crucial aspect of Greek etiquette, as drinking undiluted wine was considered barbaric and impolite. The shared use of the krater emphasized equality and camaraderie among participants, fostering a sense of community and mutual respect.

Measurement:	20 x 18.5 cm
Depth:	20 cm