Black-Gloss Mesomphalic Phiale (Libation Bowl): Apotheosis of Herakles
Unknown Artist
200s BCE
Medium
ceramic
Dimensions
h. 4.4 cm · diam. 20.6 cm
Classification
Ceramic
Department
Greek and Roman Art
Museum
Cleveland Museum of Art
Credit
Purchase from the J. H. Wade Fund
Accession Number
1926.515
About this artwork
Four four-horse chariots proceed around the interior of this libation bowl, each driven by a winged Nike (Victory) and accompanied by a flying Eros. Each carries a different figure—Athena, Herakles, Ares, and Dionysos—and small animals race along before the horses. The appearance of Herakles with these Olympians suggests his apotheosis.