Antique South Italian Greek Amphorae Double-Page Lithograph, 1883
Original antique color lithograph depicting three ancient South Italian Greek amphorae and related vessel forms, published in Berlin in 1883 as part of Albert Genick’s monumental work on Greek ceramics.
This impressive large-format double-page plate, titled “Amphoren – Unteritalien,” presents three contrasting examples of ancient South Italian pottery, each distinguished by its individual form and figural decoration.
Dominating the composition at left is a monumental lidded vessel of elaborate architectural form. Its upper body is decorated with two facing draped figures surrounded by large wing-like forms, while the tall lower section carries another imposing standing female figure. Geometric bands, Greek-key ornament and radiating motifs articulate the different sections of the vessel. The high lid, surmounted by a finial, gives the composition an especially sculptural character.
At upper right is a more restrained two-handled amphora decorated with a dynamic figural scene. A male figure carrying a staff or spear confronts a draped female figure, the composition framed below by a geometric meander border.
The third vessel, positioned at lower right, has a tall architectural form and is decorated with a standing nude male figure above an elaborate palmette band.
Genick also includes a precise archaeological line drawing documenting the construction and profile of one of the handles, emphasizing the scholarly purpose of the original publication.
The combination of three dramatically different vessel forms, classical figures and strong black-and-terracotta coloring makes this a particularly interesting and decorative plate from the series.
This is Plate XIV–XV, one of the large double-page plates from the publication. Its substantially larger format gives it considerably greater decorative presence than the regular single plates.
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 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: XIV–XV
Title on plate: Amphoren – Unteritalien
Date: 1883
Edition: Second edition
Technique: Color lithograph
Origin: Germany
Subject: Ancient South Italian Greek pottery
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 figural and ornamental details remaining well preserved. Original center fold as issued. Light age-related toning with scattered foxing and spotting, principally visible in the surrounding background and 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, South Italian pottery, Greek amphorae, Italian Greek pottery, Magna Graecia, ancient Greek pottery, Greek ceramics, Greek vases, amphora print, lidded amphora, classical figures, South Italian vase, archaeological print, classical antiquity, ancient Greece, ancient Italy, Greek art, red figure pottery, ancient vessels, Greek meander, Greek key, palmette ornament, 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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