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
Rights
Public Domain
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.