Attic Black-Figured Tyrrhenian Neck-Amphora (Primary Title)
Attributed to, Goltyr Painter, Greek, active 6th century BC (Artist)
This sexual scene features a nude man and a woman wearing an unusual garment. Ancient literature refers to many types of performers, including sex workers, hired to provide entertainment for wealthy symposium participants.
This Athenian-made amphora raises many questions about producers and consumers of ancient pottery. Its decoration is in the Tyrrhenian style, which is found almost exclusively in Etruria (central Italy) and is closer to earlier Corinthian vases than contemporary Attic vases. Were Etruscan tastes conservative, or did Athenian painters think they were conservative? Who chose the sexual scene, the painter? A merchant? Did Etruscan buyers actively seek out such scenes?
3 in 30: New Rotations in the Ancient Art Galleries
21:46Dr. Peter Schertz, the VMFA Jack and Mary Ann Frable Curator of Ancient Art, explores new acquisitions and rotations in the Ancient Art Galleries at VMFA.
Some object records are not complete and do not reflect VMFA's full and current knowledge. VMFA makes routine updates as records are reviewed and enhanced.
