Ancient Greek style , Attic Black Figure Pottery Lekythos with Sphinx style of the 5th century AD Catawiki disclaimer: This piece has been dated based on style and patina. No further tests, such as, a TL test, an analysis of pigments or radiography scans have been conducted to check the integrity of the piece. Crafted with an inverted piriform body and a torus base, this lekythos features a short tubular neck with a flaring opening. Adorned with painted bands across the body, the main body boasts a depiction of a seated sphinx - a symbol of mystery and wisdom, often guarding sacred places or serving as a riddle to be solved. A lekythos is a type of ancient Greek pottery vessel commonly used for storing and pouring oil. It was particularly popular during the Classical period, from the 5th to the 4th century BC. The lekythos was characterized by its tall, slender body, narrow neck, and a single handle attached to the neck or shoulder. This distinctive shape facilitated the pouring of oil, which was often used for various purposes, including funerary rites, religious ceremonies, and personal grooming. Lekythoi were typically made of clay and decorated with black-figure or red-figure painting techniques, featuring scenes from mythology, daily life, or funerary rituals. These vessels were commonly found in graves, where they were placed as offerings to accompany the deceased into the afterlife. The lekythos played a significant role in Greek culture, serving both practical and symbolic purposes in ancient society. Dimensions: 170mm x 80mm; weight 155g Provenance: Private UK Ancient Art Collection formerly acquired on the UK, European, and USA Art Markets from pre-2000 Collections. Disclaimer: NO SHIPPING OUTSIDE OF THE EUROPEAN UNION. All items will be shipped from Belgium. The seller guarantees and can prove that the object was obtained legally. The seller was informed by Catawiki that they had to provide the documentation required by the laws and regulations in their country of residence. The seller guarantees and is entitled to sell/export this object. The seller will provide all provenance information known about the object to the buyer. The seller ensures that any necessary permits are/will be arranged. The seller will inform the buyer immediately about any delays in obtaining such permits. The seller will not ship outside the EU. Catawiki disclaimer: This piece has been dated based on style and patina. No further tests, such as, a TL test, an analysis of pigments or radiography scans have been conducted to check the integrity of the piece.