Terracotta Panathenaic prize amphora (jar) 510 BC

This terracotta Panathenaic prize amphora was crafted by the Leagros Group, a collective of Athenian vase painters. The amphorae held olive oil, a valuable commodity, and were awarded to victors in the Panathenaic Games. The scene here depicts a chariot race, one of the games' prestigious events, highlighting the importance of athleticism, competition, and the celebration of masculine ideals in ancient Greek culture. The black-figure technique, with its stylized forms and intricate details, emphasizes the skill and artistry involved in creating these functional yet decorative objects. These amphorae were not only prizes but also symbols of civic pride and markers of social status. While celebrating athletic prowess, they also underscore the hierarchical nature of ancient Greek society, where participation in such games was largely limited to free, male citizens. It is important to consider how these objects reflect and reinforce the values and power structures of their time.