Jar

Unknown Artist

Jar by Unknown Artist

Medium

Terracotta

Dimensions

6 5/16in. (16cm) Other (diameter of body): 5 11/16in. (14.5cm)

Classification

Vases

Department

Greek and Roman Art

Museum

Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY

Credit

Gift of J. Pierpont Morgan, 1917

Accession Number

17.194.837

Art Historical Context

This modest terracotta jar, standing just over 6 inches tall with a body diameter of nearly 6 inches, exemplifies the everyday artistry of ancient Greek or Roman potters. Crafted from clay—a durable, affordable medium—such vessels were wheel-thrown on a potter's wheel, then kiln-fired to achieve their characteristic reddish hue and resilience. Though its exact date and maker remain unknown, its classification as a vase in the Greek and Roman department places it within the vast tradition of classical antiquity, where pottery served practical needs like storing oils, grains, or wine. These jar...

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