Nov 12, 2009

Gravestone in the Form of a Lekythos

Gravestone in the Form of a Lekythos

300s BC

Marble

Overall: 53.7 cm (21 1/8 in.)

Weight: 63.956 kg (141 lbs.)

Gift of J. H. Wade 1925.1342

Location

Did you know?

Inscriptions identify three of the four standing figures sculpted in relief.

Description

This grave marker takes the form of a lekythos, a type of vase (usually ceramic) commonly left as a grave offering in ancient Athens. Now fragmentary, it once had a foot below and a thin neck and vertical handle above. Five sculpted figures adorn its front. At left, an unnamed woman holds an infant. To their right, a woman, Lysistrate, clasps hands with a bearded man, Timophon. Between them stands a young girl, likely Kleippe, although her name is partially lost. The scene may commemorate Lysistrate’s death in childbirth, mourned by her husband and older child. Her newborn child apparently survived.

See also
Collection: 
GR - Greek
Department: 
Greek and Roman Art
Type of artwork: 
Sculpture
Medium: 
Marble
Credit line: 
Gift of J. H. Wade

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