Αρχαία Ελληνική Terracotta Αττικός ερυθρόμορφος λεκύθος με Διονυσιακό Κομός. (ζωγράφος: Haimon Group) - 17 cm

Elegant Attic red-figure lekythos made of finely fired terracotta. The vessel features a tall cylindrical neck with a flaring mouth, a slender ovoid body, a single handle, and a ring foot. The shoulder and neck are decorated with a radiating ornament characteristic of Classical Attic pottery.

The front depicts a lively Dionysian komos (festive procession). Several draped figures are shown moving in procession, carrying branches or thyrsoi adorned with leaves and berries. The relaxed poses and finely incised interior details convey movement and vitality, reflecting the high quality and expressive style of Classical Attic red-figure vase painting.

The reverse is executed in the typical simplified manner for lekythoi, decorated with a broad black panel.

Lekythoi were used for storing precious oils and served both in daily life and as funerary offerings. Dionysian scenes rank among the most popular subjects of Classical Attic ceramics, symbolising religious ritual, festivity, and the cult of Dionysos.

Condition:
Well preserved. Age-related surface wear with areas of rubbed decoration and minor losses to the slip. Small chips to the rim, foot, and handle. No visible modern restorations or additions. Overall, an authentic state of preservation with an attractive appearance and a clearly legible figural scene.

The scene can generally be identified as a Dionysian komos with figures carrying thyrsoi. Due to the state of preservation, a more precise identification of the individual figures is not possible.

Provenance

Formerly in the Madeleine & Erich Dammann Collection, Germany. Acquired during the owners' extensive travels between 1950 and 1970. The collection has been documented in Germany since 1970 and remained in continuous family ownership thereafter. As was customary for private purchases made in local markets during the 1950s–1970s, purchase receipts or invoices were generally neither issued nor requested. The provenance is documented through continuous family ownership, historical photographs, and supporting biographical records.