This is one of a large group of similar bowls made in the Greek cities of Ionia during the 7^th century BC, all of which feature long-necked birds, framed by lines and hatched lozenges. The style derives from Athenian Geometric pottery of the late 8^th century BC, which remained popular in East Greece long after new styles were introduced on the mainland.

Although the painted decoration of this bowl is very simple, the quality of the potting is high. The elegant shape is accentuated by five rays painted around the lower part of the bowl. East Greek bird bowls undergo a gradual development over the course of the 7^th century, and four different groups have been identified. This bowl belongs to the third group in the chronology.

 

Literature: J. Falconer and T. Mannack, Corpus Vasorum Antiquorum: Great Britain, Fascicule 19: Winchester College (Oxford, 2002), pp. 18, plate 14.5; Winchester College Memorial Buildings: Department of Classical Art (Winchester, 1909), p. 15 (no. 22)

Provenance: From Spata in Attica, at Winchester College by 1909

Location: Treasury, Gallery 3