Greek Division

Description

This Daunian pottery bowl/cup, dating from the late 5th century BC, illustrates the refined craftsmanship and unique artistic expression of the Daunian culture in ancient Apulia. The vessel is characterized by its shallow, wide form crafted from heavy, fine buff clay, suggesting its use in daily activities, possibly in food consumption or ritual practices. The base of the bowl is concavely shaped, providing stability and a sturdy foundation, essential for its utilitarian purpose. The most distinctive feature of this piece is its handle, elegantly sculpted in the shape of an animal protome. This artistic choice is more than ornamental; it signifies the Daunians’ reverence for animals, possibly reflecting their role in religious symbolism or as clan totems within the society. Externally, the vessel is encircled by meticulously applied bands of red and brown paint. These bands are not only decorative but are strategically placed to enhance the visual appeal of the bowl, showcasing the Daunians’ expertise in integrating color with form. Inside, the bowl features a complex arrangement of quadripartite triangles—a pattern that likely carries symbolic significance, perhaps depicting the cultural or mythological cosmology of the Daunian people. The intricate designs inside the bowl are executed with precision, demonstrating a mastery of geometric patterning that is both aesthetically pleasing and culturally telling. The careful balance of form, function, and decoration in this bowl/cup highlights the Daunian ceramicists’ ability to infuse everyday objects with significant cultural meaning, making it a profound representation of their artistic and spiritual life.

Cultural Relevance

This bowl/cup encapsulates the cultural and artistic endeavors of the Daunian civilization, a group known for their distinctive pottery styles which diverged significantly from their Greek and Italic neighbors. The integration of animal motifs into their ceramic work suggests a deep reverence for the natural world, which was likely intertwined with their religious practices and worldviews. This piece, therefore, not only serves as a reflection of daily life in ancient Daunia but also as a window into the ceremonial and spiritual aspects of their society.

The use of geometric patterns could represent the Daunian’s cosmological perceptions, marking this vessel as a key cultural artifact for understanding the interplay between their artistic expressions and societal beliefs. The craftsmanship displayed in this bowl/cup highlights the Daunians’ adeptness at merging functional pottery with significant cultural symbolism, making it an outstanding example of ancient Italic artistry.

This detailed and enriched description aims to provide museum visitors and potential investors with a deeper understanding of the artifact’s historical importance, intricate craftsmanship, and its profound cultural relevance within the context of ancient Italic civilizations.

Provenance and Legality Documentation

Provenance History

This Daunian bowl/cup is a valued piece within the Victor M. Pracas Collection, known for its detailed and secure provenance. It traces its acquisition history back to esteemed collections such as those of Paul Freeland and R.J. Upland Esq. Over the years, this artifact has been meticulously curated and incorporated into the Pracas family collection through both inheritance and strategic acquisition from various prominent European collections, ensuring a rich and traceable lineage that enhances its historical and cultural value.

Legal Documentation

The legal status of this Daunian bowl/cup is thoroughly established, supported by comprehensive documentation that certifies its authenticity and confirms its ownership. It comes with a certificate of authenticity and detailed legal evaluations that affirm its freedom from any export restrictions. This documentation ensures that the bowl/cup adheres to international cultural heritage laws, making it a legally compliant item available for acquisition and display.

Investment Consideration

This Daunian bowl/cup, distinguished by its exceptional provenance, historical importance, and excellent condition, offers a substantial investment opportunity. It is particularly appealing to collectors and institutions focused on Mediterranean archaeology and ancient art. The artifact’s well-documented lineage and its superb preservation enhance its desirability and potential market value, making it a compelling acquisition for those seeking to enrich their collections with rare and culturally significant pieces.

Exhibition

This Daunian bowl/cup is a central piece in our museum’s collection, prominently featured in our exhibit on ancient Mediterranean civilizations. Its display provides visitors with a vivid insight into the cultural intricacies of the Daunian people, enhancing their understanding of the diverse practices and artistic expressions that characterized this ancient society.

Educational Value

As an invaluable educational resource, this artifact illuminates the artistic and cultural practices of the Daunians. It serves as a tangible link to the past, offering lessons on ancient crafting techniques, societal norms, and religious beliefs. Through hands-on engagement with this bowl/cup, educators and students alike can explore the depth of Daunian civilization and its contributions to Mediterranean history.

References

The provenance and authenticity of the Daunian Pottery Bowl/Cup are meticulously documented within the Victor M. Pracas Collection. Expert assessments, including authenticity certifications, confirm the artifact’s historical validity. Additionally, scholarly resources on Daunian pottery and the Iron Age cultures of the Italian Peninsula provide further insights into the artifact’s significance and context.