Antique Greek Amphora with Figural Handles Color Lithograph, 1883
Original antique color lithograph depicting an exceptionally elaborate ancient Greek amphora with anthropomorphic figural handles and richly detailed classical decoration, published in Berlin in 1883 as part of Albert Genick’s monumental work on Greek ceramics.
This striking large-format plate presents an unusual amphora distinguished by two tall handles terminating in finely rendered female heads. These sculptural, human-form handles give the vessel an especially dramatic silhouette and make this one of the most visually distinctive plates in Genick’s series.
The body of the amphora is richly decorated with multiple figural and architectural scenes. In the upper register, a pale winged female figure reclines against a dark ground, surrounded by stylized vegetal ornament. Below, a central seated female figure is framed within a small classical temple-like structure, flanked by two standing figures. One carries vessels, while the other appears beside a large wing-like form.
The decoration combines deep black, terracotta red and contrasting cream-white details, with scrolling foliage, geometric ornament and a Greek-key meander border completing the composition.
At the left of the amphora, Genick includes a precise archaeological profile drawing illustrating the unusual construction and sculptural form of one of the handles.
The combination of anthropomorphic handles, classical architecture, winged figures and unusually rich polychrome decoration makes this a particularly impressive and decorative plate from the series.
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: VII
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, terracotta and cream-white coloring with the intricate decorative details remaining well preserved. Light age-related toning with scattered minor foxing and spotting, principally visible in the surrounding margins. Minor edge wear 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, figural handles, anthropomorphic handles, female head handles, ancient Greek pottery, Greek ceramics, Greek vase, amphora print, Greek mythology, winged figure, classical figures, classical architecture, Greek temple, archaeological print, classical antiquity, ancient Greece, Greek art, ancient vessels, Greek meander, Greek key, palmette ornament, 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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