ITEM: Unguentarium MATERIAL: Pottery CULTURE: Greek PERIOD: 4th - 3rd Century B.C DIMENSIONS: 65 mm x 30 mm CONDITION: Good condition PROVENANCE: Ex Swedish private collection, acquired between 1955 - 1975 Comes with Certificate of Authenticity and Export license Hellenistic pottery refers to ceramic artifacts produced during the Hellenistic period, which spanned from the death of Alexander the Great in 323 BCE to the emergence of the Roman Empire in the 1st century BCE. This era witnessed a remarkable fusion of artistic influences from the Greek world, the Near East, and Egypt, leading to a diverse range of pottery styles and forms. Hellenistic pottery was characterized by its innovation and experimentation, often departing from the classical Greek aesthetics. Common decorative motifs included intricate painted designs, such as floral patterns, mythological scenes, and genre scenes, which reflected the eclectic nature of the period. Hellenistic pottery was also known for its production of utilitarian wares, such as cooking vessels, storage containers, and tableware, which were created in various shapes and sizes to meet the diverse needs of the time. The Hellenistic period's pottery not only served practical purposes but also acted as a canvas for artistic expression and cultural exchange. One of the most notable developments in Hellenistic pottery was the emergence of three distinct regional styles: the Hellenistic Greek style, which retained some elements of classical Greek pottery but incorporated new elements; the Eastern Mediterranean style, heavily influenced by the rich artistic traditions of the Near East and Persia; and the Egyptian style, characterized by its colorful and intricate decoration.