Cypriot Jug with a Man and Deer in the Getty Villa, July 2008

Jug with a Man and Deer
Unknown
Cypriot, 2300 - 1650 B.C.
Terracotta
17 3/8 in.
2001.79

Well over a foot high, this large and unusually decorated jug is an impressive example of the aesthetic and technical achievement of ancient Bronze Age society on the island of Cyprus. Because it is made of highly durable terracotta, it is not surprising that the vessel survived for thousands of years; however, it is remarkable that the broken pieces of the vessel's exceptional three-dimensional decoration have survived to be reassembled. A sculptural scene that may depict a daily activity or a religious ritual adorns the shoulder of the jug. The scene shows a man sitting on a low stool next to a large bowl, and a small jug of the same shape rests between his feet. Nearby are two spotted deer, one stag, and one doe. Before cattle were introduced to Cyprus, deer were the largest animals found there. Scholars believe that the man may be preparing to milk the doe or to collect its blood in the basin as part of a religious activity.

Text from: www.getty.edu/art/gettyguide/artObjectDetails?artobj=144483