Jan 27, 2010
Apr 29, 2008
Apr 29, 2008
Jan 27, 2010
Apr 29, 2008
Jan 27, 2010
Jan 27, 2010
Jan 27, 2010
Jan 27, 2010

Ewer (Pitcher) with Game, Seafood, and Wine Scenes

Ewer (Pitcher) with Game, Seafood, and Wine Scenes

late AD 300s

Silver with traces of gilding

Overall: 40 x 14.3 cm (15 3/4 x 5 5/8 in.)

Weight: 1.355 kg (2.99 lbs.)

Purchase from the J. H. Wade Fund with the addition of a gift from Mrs. Edward B. Greene 1957.497

Description

This magnificent pitcher, called a ewer, was almost certainly meant for serving wine in the dining room of a wealthy home. On its surface are images in three bands representing the expected bounty of the hunt. Deer pursued by a lioness and hares chased by dogs appear in the top band, signifying the wealth of game the owner hoped to have on the family table. In the lowest band are edible sea creatures, while the center features the merry followers of the Roman wine god Bacchus (Dionysos in Greek).

See also

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