• Alternate view of object
  • Alternate view of object
Nov 12, 2009
Nov 12, 2009

Black-Figure Trefoil Oinochoe (Wine Jug): Europa on Bull

Black-Figure Trefoil Oinochoe (Wine Jug): Europa on Bull

c. 530 BC

attributed to Class of Vatican 440

(Greek, Attic)

Greek, Attic

Ceramic

Overall: 23.6 cm (9 5/16 in.)

Purchase from the J. H. Wade Fund 1929.978

Location

102B Greek

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Did you know?

The continent of Europe takes its name from Europa, a Phoenician princess abducted by Zeus.

Description

Calmly seated sidesaddle on a bull, the woman depicted on the front of this small wine jug probably represents Europa, the Phoenician princess abducted by the Greek god Zeus. According to myth, Zeus either sent a bull or transformed himself into one, then carried Europa across the sea to Crete. There, she bore Zeus two or three sons, including the legendary king Minos. The bull ascended to the sky as the constellation Taurus.

See also
Collection: 
GR - Greek
Department: 
Greek and Roman Art
Type of artwork: 
Ceramic
Medium: 
Ceramic
Credit line: 
Purchase from the J. H. Wade Fund

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