Greek Division

Description

This Daunian Ware Pottery Olpe, dating back to the 4th century BC, is an exemplary piece that underscores the rich ceramic tradition of ancient Southern Italy. Crafted from fine buff clay, this vessel exemplifies the distinctive artistry and functional design characteristic of Daunian culture during this period.

The olpe’s structure is robust, featuring a globular body that elegantly tapers to a narrower neck, culminating in a wide opening that simplifies pouring and serving. This shape is not only practical but also aesthetically pleasing, reflecting the Daunian approach to combining form with function in everyday objects.

A single handle, skillfully attached from the shoulder to just below the vessel’s rim, is a notable feature of the olpe. It arches gracefully, providing a secure and comfortable grip that enhances the vessel’s usability. The handle’s integration into the olpe’s form demonstrates the potter’s careful consideration of ergonomics, ensuring that the piece is both functional and balanced.

The surface of the olpe is adorned with a unique greenish slip decoration—a technique involving the application of a liquid clay mixture that, when fired, transforms into a lustrous, slightly glossy finish. This finish not only protects the pottery but also adds a subtle aesthetic quality, highlighting the natural beauty of the clay.

Accentuating this greenish slip are broad, horizontal bands in deep brown and vibrant green, encircling the vessel. These bands are thoughtfully placed to enhance the olpe’s visual appeal, emphasizing its symmetrical balance and pleasing proportions. The use of natural pigments for these bands showcases the Daunian potters’ skill in utilizing local resources to achieve a desired visual effect, linking the artifact directly to its geographical and cultural context.

The choice of colors and the method of their application not only serve decorative purposes but also bear cultural significance, potentially reflecting the symbolic or societal meanings attributed to these colors by the Daunian people. The integration of both functional and decorative elements in this olpe illustrates its role in daily life, possibly extending to social gatherings and ceremonial uses, reflecting the intertwined nature of utility and aesthetics in Daunian society.

In summary, this Daunian Ware Pottery Olpe is a profound testament to the ceramic craftsmanship of the time, embodying the technical expertise, cultural practices, and artistic expressions of the Daunian people. Its well-preserved condition, combined with its rich historical and cultural significance, makes it not only a valuable piece for academic study but also a compelling exhibit in the exploration of ancient Mediterranean civilizations.

Cultural Relevance

This Daunian Ware Pottery Olpe showcases the dual artistic and utilitarian values characteristic of Daunian culture, renowned for its rich pottery traditions integral to daily and communal life. Its robust form, combined with the strategic use of greenish slip and vibrant bands, suggests roles beyond mere utility, possibly in social gatherings and rituals. Such elements likely bear cultural significance, reflecting societal beliefs or statuses. This blend of functionality with aesthetic detail underscores the cultural sophistication of the Daunians, where everyday artifacts also served as expressions of societal identity and spiritual practice.

Provenance and Legality Documentation

Provenance History

This Daunian Ware Pottery Olpe is a distinguished piece from the Victor M. Pracas Collection, known for its meticulous documentation of provenance. The artifact traces its ownership back to renowned collections such as those of Paul Freeland and R.J. Upland Esq., underscoring its esteemed lineage. Acquired through established and legitimate channels, its well-documented journey into the Pracas Collection enhances its historical and collector’s value, ensuring its authenticity and significance.

Legal Documentation

Accompanied by thorough legal documentation, this olpe includes a certificate of authenticity, verifying its origin and authenticity. It has been thoroughly examined and cleared for both purchase and international export, complying with all relevant legal standards for the trade of antiquities. This comprehensive legal documentation guarantees that the olpe is a legally compliant artifact, suitable for trade and exhibition in the global art and antiquities market.

Investment Consideration

This Daunian Ware Pottery Olpe represents a highly valuable investment opportunity, particularly for collectors and institutions specializing in ancient Mediterranean art and artifacts. Its historical significance, coupled with its exceptional condition and the distinctive rarity of its decorative style, makes it a standout piece. The olpe’s provenance and the meticulous documentation supporting its authenticity enhance its appeal, ensuring that it holds not only cultural and historical value but also substantial potential for appreciation over time. This combination of factors renders the olpe a compelling acquisition for both private collectors and public collections seeking to enrich their holdings with unique and significant artifacts.

Exhibition

This Daunian Ware Pottery Olpe is a featured exhibit in our museum’s collection, where it plays a pivotal role in enhancing the understanding of Daunian artistic heritage. Its presence helps visitors appreciate the influence of Daunian culture on broader Mediterranean pottery traditions, showcasing the unique artistry and craftsmanship that characterize this ancient society.

Educational Value

As an educational tool, this olpe provides profound insights into the ceramic techniques and cultural practices of the Daunians. It serves as a tangible link to the past, illustrating the significant role everyday objects played in reflecting and shaping the social and cultural dynamics of historical populations. Through this artifact, educators and students can explore the intricate relationship between form, function, and symbolism within Daunian society.

References

The provenance and authenticity of the Daunian Ware Pottery Olpe are comprehensively documented within the Victor M. Pracas Collection. Expert assessments have verified the historical accuracy and legitimacy of this artifact. Scholarly research on Daunian pottery and Southern Italian cultural practices provides further context and depth, enhancing our understanding of the artifact’s significance. This integrated approach to documentation ensures that the olpe’s credibility and historical importance are well-established.