Lot 431
Unusual Xenon Ware Guttus. Campania, c. 340-330 BC. The vessel of discoid shape, on ring foot, with upright handle to the side, and slim spout to front. Finely glazed in black, the central discus with facing head of a youthful satyr -- his features bold, if a bit coarse, and his hair fairly luxuriant. Applied over the glaze, as a red paint, is a pattern of petals bordering the discus, with a row of "egg and darts" below, along the sides. A few trivial chips at spout and along foot, otherwise guttus is remarkabley well preserved, and without repairs. Width: 4-5/8".
Estimated Value $950 - 1,250.
The guttus is generally defined as being a "lamp filler," for easily pouring oil into the lamp's reservoir. However many examples of this group have thick spouts with wide, often ribbed mouths, which seem unaccountably awkward for the purpose. Yet these same wide mouths work admirable as "roll-on" applicators for heavy oil, such as might have been used for bathing or anointing purposes. This in fact may be the true function of many of the guttoi. However, the above piece, with its very slim spout, would seem to more likely fit the description of lamp filler. The exact place of manufacture for Xenon ware objects remains uncertain. The most probable area appears to be Peucetia or Southern Daunia, perhaps Ruvo or Canosa.
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| Realized $661 |
