Antique Greek Krater with Chariot Procession Color Lithograph, 1883
Original antique color lithograph depicting a monumental ancient Greek krater decorated with a striking chariot procession, published in Berlin in 1883 as part of Albert Genick’s important work on Greek ceramics.
This impressive large-format plate presents a monumental black krater distinguished by exceptionally elaborate volute handles and a finely detailed decorative frieze.
The upper register of the vessel is dominated by a continuous procession of horse-drawn chariots and classical figures. Teams of horses advance rhythmically across the terracotta ground, accompanied by charioteers and standing figures. The relatively small scale of the figures against the enormous vessel emphasizes the krater’s monumental form.
Above the procession runs an exceptionally decorative band of repeating palmettes and scrolling vegetal ornament, bordered at the rim by a traditional Greek-key meander.
The most distinctive feature of the vessel is its pair of tall volute handles. Each terminates in a tightly coiled spiral and is decorated with repeating geometric ornament, giving the krater an imposing and highly sculptural silhouette.
The lower body is deliberately restrained, consisting primarily of a deep black field terminating in radiating terracotta decoration above the foot. This contrast directs attention toward the exceptionally detailed procession and ornamental upper section.
This is Plate XXI–XXII, one of the large double-page plates from the publication. The horizontal center fold is original and as issued, rather than later damage. Its substantially larger format gives the plate considerably greater decorative presence than the regular single sheets.
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 color lithographic plates, including several double-page plates, illustrating amphorae, kraters, rhyta, 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: XXI–XXII
Title on plate: Krater
Date: 1883
Edition: Second edition
Technique: Color lithograph
Origin: Germany
Format: Double-page plate
Sheet size: Approximately 68 x 92 cm (26.8 x 36.2 inches)
Orientation: Landscape
Period: Late 19th Century
Style: Neoclassical / Archaeological Revival
Condition: Very good antique condition. Strong black and terracotta coloring with the fine chariot, horse and ornamental details remaining well preserved. Original horizontal center fold as issued. 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.
Reference: Brand/Evers 597.
Keywords: Albert Genick, Greek krater, volute krater, chariot procession, Greek chariot, ancient Greek horses, horse drawn chariot, ancient Greek pottery, Greek ceramics, Greek vase, krater print, classical procession, Greek art, ancient Greece, Greek pottery print, archaeological print, classical antiquity, volute handles, palmette ornament, Greek meander, Greek key, ancient vessels, neoclassical decor, Archaeological Revival, archaeological illustration, antique lithograph, double page 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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