Crater with volutes (vase)

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Crater with volutes, dating back around 400-390 BC J.C., originates from the Apulian production of Tarente in Southern Italy and is attributed to the renowned painter behind The Birth of Dionysos. This magnificent piece would likely have been crafted in Bari, showcasing exceptional ceramics skills. On display at the Musée d'Art et d'Histoire (part of the Cinquantenaire museum in Brussels, Belgium), it was created using ReMake and ReCap Pro software from AutoDesk. Originally designed as a wine and water mixing vessel for banquets, these monumental Apulian craters, such as this one, seem to have been repurposed for funerary use. The scene depicted here vividly conveys its original function: after his passing, Heracles is transported to Olympus in Athena's chariot, symbolizing her protective goddess status. The hero's welcome in the divine realm signifies his eternal status. As a leading figure of the ornate style and one of the top artists of ancient Apulian ceramics, the painter behind The Birth of Dionysos crafts intricate compositions in a rich, sophisticated manner, often adorning large vases with his artwork. To stay up-to-date on more fascinating discoveries like this one, consider following me on Twitter at @GeoffreyMarchal.