Iapygian Polychromatic Askos
Iapygian Polychromatic Askos
This small sized askos is characterized by its two necks, each provided with a sieve with circular holes, whose exact use is unknown.
3rd century B.C., 4th century B.C.
H: 18.5 cm
Out of stock
Product Description
This small sized askos (the word originally designated an animal skin used to carry water and wine) is characterized by its two necks, each provided with a sieve with circular holes, whose exact use is unknown.
The askos is a typical product of Daunian ceramists: our example is outstanding for its elaborate decoration, organized in geometric and vegetal horizontal friezes, separated by double nets. In southern Italy, this type of vessel generally had a funerary purpose, as attested by the presence of the two dolphins on the shoulder: these animals were indeed supposed to facilitate the transition of the deceased to the afterlife.
The Iapygians were an indigenous people who inhabited the heel of Italy (modern-day Apulia). They were subdivided into three tribes: the Daunians, who occupied the north of the region (Gargano promontory- Foggia area), the Peucetians (central part of the region, Bari area) and the Messapians (southern part of the region, modern-day Salento).
