Antique Greek Amphora with Classical Figures Color Lithograph, 1883
Original antique color lithograph depicting an elaborately decorated ancient Greek amphora with a dynamic classical figural scene, published in Berlin in 1883 as part of Albert Genick’s monumental work on Greek ceramics.
This impressive large-format plate presents an unusual amphora distinguished by exceptionally tall handles decorated with circular rosette ornaments. A separately drawn archaeological detail above the vessel records elements of its construction and ornament.
The principal decoration consists of a lively group of classical figures rendered in terracotta red against the deep black body of the vessel. At the center, a draped female figure interacts with a standing male warrior carrying a large round shield and staff or spear. Additional figures flank the central pair, creating a continuous narrative composition across the body of the amphora.
Below the figural scene is an elaborate band of repeating palmette and scrolling ornament, followed by geometric borders and radiating decoration toward the base. The combination of monumental form, unusual handles and densely rendered classical imagery gives this plate particularly strong decorative appeal.
The print originates from the second edition of Albert Genick’s important publication on Greek ceramics, published by Ernst Wasmuth in Berlin in 1883. The complete work comprised 36 large color lithographic plates, including four double-page plates, illustrating amphorae, vases, bowls and other examples of ancient Greek ceramic art.
The lithographs were produced by the Berlin printing establishment Hein & Mosler. Albert Genick (1837–1906), a Berlin-trained architect, became particularly known for his precise graphic documentation of ancient ceramics. This publication is regarded as his principal work. Complete examples are rare, and individual plates from the series are increasingly difficult to find.
Creator: Albert Genick (1837–1906)
Publisher: Ernst Wasmuth, Berlin
Printer: Hein & Mosler, Berlin
Plate: X
Date: 1883
Edition: Second edition
Technique: Color lithograph
Origin: Germany
Sheet size: Approximately 68 x 46 cm (26.8 x 18.1 inches)
Orientation: Portrait
Period: Late 19th Century
Style: Neoclassical / Archaeological Revival
Condition: Very good antique condition. Strong black and terracotta coloring with the fine figural and ornamental details remaining well preserved. Light age-related toning with scattered minor foxing and spotting, principally visible in the surrounding margins. Minor wear and slight irregularity along the sheet edges consistent with age. Please study the photographs carefully as they form part of the condition description.
An original antique lithograph printed in 1883, not a modern reproduction.
The print is offered unframed. Any framed or interior images, if shown, are for presentation and inspiration only.
Additional companion plates from Albert Genick’s series are available separately.
Keywords: Albert Genick, Greek amphora, classical figures, Greek warrior, ancient Greek pottery, Greek ceramics, Greek vase, amphora print, Greek mythology, classical warrior, Greek shield, Greek figures, archaeological print, classical antiquity, ancient Greece, Greek art, red figure pottery, ancient vessels, rosette handles, palmette ornament, Greek meander, Greek key, neoclassical decor, Archaeological Revival, archaeological illustration, antique lithograph, color lithograph, ceramic art, classical art, Greek Revival, Grand Tour, Ernst Wasmuth, Hein Mosler, Berlin 1883, 19th century print, museum style decor
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