Two-handled Cup (skyphos)

Culture: Roman, 753 BCE–395 CE
Period: Early Imperial period, 27 BCE–330 CE
Date: 1st century BCE–1st century CE
Material: Lead-glazed ceramic
associated with: Asia
associated with: Europe
Classification: Ceramics, containers
Collection: Ancient Art
Current Location: On View, Gallery 208
Dimensions: 2 7/8 x 3 1/2 in. (7.3 x 8.9 cm)
handle to handle: 5 3/4 in. (14.6 cm)
Credit Line: Museum Purchase
Rights: Public Domain
Object Number: 245:1923

NOTES

The distinct colors—deep green and mustard yellow—of this mold-made ceramic cup are obtained from a lead glaze developed in the 1st century BCE in the eastern Mediterranean. More fluid and less prone to cracking, this glaze was a distinct improvement over other contemporary glazing technologies. It has been suggested that these colors were specifically selected to emulate the patina of weathered bronze and gilded silver. This vessel shape is common in ceramic, glass, and metal.

Provenance

- 1923
Enrico Caruso (1873-1921), Naples, Italy; New York, NY, USA [1]

1923 -
Saint Louis Art Museum, purchased at the sale of the Enrico Caruso collection, American Art Association, New York, NY, March 5-8, 1923, lot no. 752 [2]

Notes:
[1] Upon Caruso's death in 1921, the alabastron remained in his estate until the 1923 auction.

[2] Purchased at the sale of the Enrico Caruso collection at the American Art Association, New York, March 5-8, 1923, lot no. 752. Invoice from the American Art Association dated March 5, 1923 and Minutes of the Administrative Board of Control of the City Art Museum, April 6, 1923.

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