Lekythos 599 BC

This small Lekythos was made by the Little Lion Class, using earthenware and a black-figure technique. This process involved meticulously painting the figures onto the vessel, before firing it in a kiln. Consider how the artist has used the material's inherent qualities, the fine-grained clay body, to create a smooth surface, ideal for painting detailed narratives. Notice the sharp contrast between the black figures and the reddish-orange ground. This wasn't just about aesthetics; it was a labor-intensive process requiring precision and skill, each line carefully drawn with a fine brush. The vessel would then be fired in a kiln, where the painted decoration vitrified, becoming a permanent part of the object. The production of such pottery involved specialized workshops, reflecting a division of labor and skilled craftsmanship. The Little Lion Class were active participants in the vibrant economic and artistic landscape of their time. Through their work, they bridged the gap between functionality and art, demonstrating how everyday objects could be elevated through skilled making and thoughtful design.