An Apulian Xenonware Kantharos, Classical Period, ca. 4th century BCE

A finely made miniature kantharos in black-glazed ceramic, standing on a low ring foot with an elegant, ovoid body tapering gently at the base. The vessel has a wide, flared mouth with an everted rim and two small, horizontal loop handles applied at the midsection. A decorative band of ochre slip encircles the upper body, consisting of a central wave pattern framed by parallel lines above and below. The glaze has developed a subtle iridescence in places. Medium: Blackware ceramic Dimensions: Height: 2 inches (5 cm), Width with handles: 2 3/4 inches (7 cm) Condition: Overall intact and in excellent condition, the surface with small losses to the glaze. Provenance: David F. Hoff, TX (1948 - 2021) private collection, acquired between 1993 - 1997 and then by descent.