Black-Figure Pseudo-Panathenaic Prize
Amphora (Storage Vessel) (Primary Title)
Unknown (Artist)
“Twice before in their ceremonies the Athenian voices have risen in sweetness to acclaim him; and in earth burnt by fire and the keeping of figured vessels the olive’s yield has come to Hera’s land.” – Pindar, Nemean Ode
Amphorae filled with oil from a grove of olive trees sacred to the goddess Athena were awarded to the victors at the quadrennial Panathenaic games held in Athens. Each amphora was decorated on one side with an image of Athena and, in most cases, an image of an athletic contest on the other. Small versions such as this example were perhaps souvenirs.
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