Alabastron
early 4th century BCE
Medium
Terracotta
Dimensions
Diameter: 1 1/4 × 1 1/8 in. (3.2 × 2.9 cm) Height: 4 1/16 in. (10.3 cm)
Classification
Vases
Culture & Period
Greek, Attic · Late Classical
Department
Greek and Roman Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Rogers Fund, 1906
Accession Number
06.1021.89
Art Historical Context
This delicate terracotta alabastron, attributed to the Bulas Group and dating to the early 4 century BCE, hails from Attic Greece during the Late Classical period—a when Athenian artistry blended refined elegance with everyday functionality. Standing just over 4 inches tall with a narrow neck and slender body (H. 4 1/16 in., Dia. 1 1/4 in.), it exemplifies the precision of Greek vase-making, crafted for holding precious oils or perfumes used in grooming and rituals. Alabastra like this were popular personal items, often carried by women for cosmetics or as grave offerings, highlighting the cu...