Bronze water jar (Hydria)

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Bronze hydriai crafted during the 4th century BC display a slender form unlike earlier examples, with two-figured reliefs replacing the winged Sirens that adorned 5th-century vessels. This particular piece features Eros and Psyche as its central motif. The handles, neck, foot, and reliefs were cast from bronze, while the bodies were hammered into shape from sheet metal. The style and technique of the reliefs mirror those found on mirror covers. The decorative elements were intentionally silvered to create a striking contrast with the golden patina of the bronze. The limited number of surviving bronze hydriai share such similar form and design that it suggests a restricted number of workshops, possibly only one or two, produced these luxury items for export. These vessels were primarily used for pouring libations, but they also served as urns for holding ashes in secondary use.