The narrow neck of this vase indicates that it was used for storing oil, perhaps for anointing the body in the gymnasium or making a religious offering. It is painted with an image of Hermes, the messenger god, recognisable by his petasos (traveller’s hat).

 

Literature: J. Falconer and T. Mannack, Corpus Vasorum Antiquorum: Great Britain, Fascicule 19: Winchester College (Oxford, 2002), p. 10, plate 8.13-14; Winchester College Memorial Buildings: Department of Classical Art (Winchester, 1909), p. 24 (no. 90)

Provenance: Gift of Miss Preston before 1909

Location: Treasury, Gallery 3