Aphrodite Oinochoe

Attributed to Charinos · Athens · Late 5th century BC
Painted terracotta · Height 27.7 cm

ADR · I · MMXXVI

Detail
The vessel is modeled as the bust of Aphrodite, goddess of love and beauty. Her hair is elaborately arranged and crowned, while large shells open at either side, alluding to her emergence from the sea. The torso of the goddess, adorned in pearl jewelry, forms the body of the container. The spout rises from the top of the head, integrating the divine image with the functional purpose of the jug. The work reflects the Athenian tradition of molded terracotta vessels that combine sculptural form with everyday use.

Detail

Aphrodite wears strings of pearls as body jewelry and a crown that evokes octopus tentacles. The interior form that gently frames her resembles the flesh of the oyster. This delicately holds her between two shells.

Detail

Delicately suspended between two shells, remnants of coloured glaze can be seen. Pinks and reds adorn the shells and torso. While the base of ocean waves seem to be glazed in a deep blue/green.