Greek
An Attic black-figure amphora, in the manner of the Antimenes Painter, circa 525 - 500 BC
Pottery
Height: 45 cm
The obverse of the vase depicts a fight, probably between Achilles and Memnon in defence of the fallen Antilochus. The warrior on the left, Memnon, wearing a Corinthian helmet, thrusts...
The obverse of the vase depicts a fight, probably between Achilles and Memnon in defence of the fallen Antilochus. The warrior on the left, Memnon, wearing a Corinthian helmet, thrusts his spear into the fallen Antilochus, who looks back in order to defend himself. The warrior on the right is Achilles, also depicted wearing a Corinthian helmet and shield. The hero advances to protect Antilochus. A small bird is shown flying above Memnon. The reverse of the vase depicts the god Dionysus surrounded by grapes and vine leaves, and holding a large cup. To his left a satyr is depicting playing a flute; two females, possibly maenads, flank both figures.
Provenance
With Stolper Galleries, Munich, in 1992With Peter Tillou Works of Art Ltd, London, acquired from the above
Literature
The small bird is in reference to Memnon’s impending death and also represents the Memnonides, the companions of Memnon who were turned into birds by Memnon’s mother Eos on his death.