古代迈锡尼文明 陶瓷 彩绘马镫形罐——晚铜器时代，公元前约1300年 - 10.2 cm

Ancient Mycenaean Painted Stirrup Jar – Late Bronze Age, circa 1300 BC

Eastern Mediterranean – Mycenaean Civilization – Circa 1300 BC

An attractive and historically significant Mycenaean terracotta stirrup jar dating to the Late Bronze Age, approximately 3,300 years old.

This ancient vessel features a beautifully proportioned, squat globular body, covered in a warm cream-colored slip and decorated with elegant concentric bands in deep brown and reddish-brown pigments.

The decoration consists of horizontal bands of varying widths encircling the body, while the shoulder displays characteristic Mycenaean motifs, including concentric arcs and short painted strokes.

The vessel retains its distinctive central false neck and separate flaring pouring spout, characteristic features of Mycenaean stirrup jars. The original handles are missing, and an opening is visible on the shoulder.

Despite its considerable age, the piece preserves much of its original painted decoration, offering a fascinating glimpse into the craftsmanship and artistic traditions of the ancient Aegean world.

Historical Significance:
Stirrup jars are among the most recognizable ceramic forms of the Mycenaean civilization, which flourished in mainland Greece and the Aegean during the Late Bronze Age. Their unusual construction incorporated a central false neck, originally connected to the shoulder by two handles, and a separate functional spout used for pouring.

These vessels were primarily associated with the storage and transportation of valuable liquids, particularly olive oil and perfumed oils.

Mycenaean stirrup jars circulated throughout the Mediterranean, reaching Cyprus, the Levant, and Egypt. They represent important archaeological evidence of the sophisticated maritime trade networks connecting Bronze Age civilizations. Today, these distinctive vessels are appreciated by collectors for their historical importance, elegant proportions, and characteristic painted decoration.

Dimensions:
- Height: 10.2 cm (4 inches)
- Diameter: 10.9 cm (4.3 inches)
- Material: Painted terracotta / earthenware
- Culture: Mycenaean
- Period: Late Bronze Age
- Date: Circa 1300 BC

Condition:
Ancient condition consistent with age and archaeological origin. Both original handles are missing, with an opening visible on the upper shoulder. Minor chips, nicks, surface abrasions, and wear to the painted decoration are present. The vessel retains attractive original painted details, natural earthen deposits, and an appealing ancient patina.

Provenance:

Formerly in the Sonik Rainer (1897–1981) and Walter Engelmann Collection.
Subsequently in a private New Hampshire, USA collection, acquired by descent.
After acquired through a known Auction house (purchase invoice and documentation will be provided)

The documented collecting history adds particular interest to this ancient Mediterranean artifact.

A Remarkable Piece of Bronze Age History:

A charming example of Mycenaean ceramic craftsmanship, combining a distinctive ancient form, beautifully preserved geometric decoration, and an interesting collecting history.
Dating to approximately 1300 BC, this vessel offers collectors the opportunity to acquire a tangible piece of the ancient Aegean world, associated with the maritime commerce and cultural exchanges of the Late Bronze Age.