Cypriot Silver and Gold Phiale in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, July 2010

Title: Silver and gold phiale (libation bowl)

Medium; Technique: Silver, gold

Culture: Cypriot

Period: Archaic

Date: late 6th century B.C.

Dimensions: H. 1 1/4 in. (3.1 cm) diameter 6 3/4 in. (17.2 cm)

Credit Line: The Cesnola Collection, Purchased by subscription, 1874–76

Accession Number: 74.51.4572

On View


Description:

The phiale, characterized by its wide, low proportions and by the central boss, originated in the Near East but reached the Greek world by about 700 B.C. Phialai with a zone of ornament around the omphalos (central boss) found particular favor in eastern Greece. The palmette-lotus band is of Cypro-Phoenician type but its application may reflect Greek influence.

Text from: www.metmuseum.org/Works_of_Art/collection_database/greek_...