Ancient Greek Bronze Vessel Handle 6th-5th Century BC

Description

Heading: Ancient Greek Bronze Vessel Handle 6th-5th Century BC

Material: Copper-alloy (bronze)

Period: Ancient Greek

Date: 6th-5th centuries BC

Origin: Ancient Greece

Condition: As part of a liquid vessel it has survived remarkably well, it has some corrosion but with a nice dark green patina and good remaining detail.

Description: A exquisite handle from a drinking vessel or jug, composed of scrolled attachment ribs for the rim, arching handle and pierced acanthus leaf terminal.

Size and Weight: 120mm x 94mm, 152g

Features and Provenance:  Ex TimeLine Auctions, previously a Central London collection

The acanthus leaf was a popular decorative element for both the Ancient Roman and Greek artist and architect. It was often used to decorate handles where a robust grip was required on such vessels as wine amphora. The wide shape of the leaf was particularly good as it gave a large area of attachment to the body of the vessel. Our example probably comes from a jug or drinking vessel with an opening of about 80mm, it may have had two handles as the grip area is not extensive, but this is conjecture. Symbolically, the acanthus was used as it meant enduring and immortal, especially pertinent when it was attached to a piece of pottery!

Condition Summary. This varies with the age of the artefact and there are grades between

Extremely Fine (EF). Very slight traces of wear, all parts of pattern etc present, visible and clear

Very Fine (VF). Some signs of wear on the higher parts of the relief, all parts of pattern etc present, but may be worn

Fine (F). Wear on the artefact and parts of item and pattern etc may be missing or not visible