Lot #1: Etruscan | Terracotta Skyphos with Floral Rosette Decoration | Circa 7th–5th Century B.C.

Historical Context and Origin Region: Ancient Italy (Etruria) Material: Terracotta with mineral pigment decoration Period: Archaic Period, circa 7th–5th Century B.C. Description This ancient Etruscan terracotta skyphos is a beautifully preserved example of early Italic pottery from the Archaic period. The vessel features a wide flared rim and a stable pedestal foot, accompanied by two horizontal loop handles extending from the shoulder—an elegant form associated with ceremonial drinking cups used throughout the ancient Mediterranean. The exterior is decorated with a striking radial floral motif composed of elongated petal-like elements surrounding a central rosette. Rendered in dark mineral pigment against the warm buff terracotta surface, the decoration reflects the geometric and stylized floral patterns characteristic of Etruscan ceramic workshops influenced by both indigenous Italic traditions and Greek artistic exchange. The vessel’s interior and exterior surfaces exhibit extensive mineral accretions, burial patina, and age-related surface wear consistent with significant antiquity. Wheel-turning marks remain visible on the underside, offering further evidence of ancient manufacture. The decorative motif, balanced proportions, and robust construction suggest the piece was both functional and symbolic, likely used in ritualized drinking or domestic ceremonial contexts. Features - Authentic Etruscan terracotta skyphos form with twin loop handles - Hand-painted radial floral rosette decoration - Flared rim and pedestal foot typical of Archaic Italic pottery - Visible wheel-throwing marks on the base - Heavy mineral patina and burial accretions consistent with age - Classic Mediterranean drinking vessel form used in ritual and domestic settings Cultural Significance Skyphoi were widely used drinking vessels in the ancient Mediterranean, adopted by both Greek and Etruscan cultures. In Etruria, such vessels often appeared in domestic banquets as well as funerary contexts, reflecting the importance of communal drinking and ritual feasting in Etruscan society. Floral and rosette motifs were symbolic decorative elements frequently associated with life, regeneration, and cosmological order in ancient Italic art. Condition Ancient condition with expected surface wear, mineral encrustation, and areas of pigment loss consistent with age and burial. Structurally stable and well preserved for its antiquity. Age (Approximate) 2,400–2,700 years old Provenance From a private collection in South Paris, Maine, USA. The owner was a lifelong collector of antiquities, with numerous artifacts from the collection acquired by the current owner in 2026. Dimensions: 8.5 x 5.25 x 4 in Pickup category timeslot {A} Price Estimate: CAD 600 - 900 Ships from Toronto, ON. No local pickup. Buyer arranges shipping and insurance directly with seller after auction closes.