Achilles & Ajax Exekias Ancient Greek Amphora Vase Museum Replica Handmade

Please note this article is an artist’s REPLICA and NOT a genuine ancient artifact!!

* MADE IN GREECE – HANDMADE – HAND PAINTED * 

Dimensions (approximately): 

Height :  35 cm       (14 in) 

Width:    21 cm       (8 in)

Net Weight:  2060  gr    (4.54 lb)

Material: Genuine Ceramic

Note: Due to the difference between different monitors, the picture may not reflect  the actual color of the item. Thank you!

Amphora, ancient vessel form used as a storage jar and one of the principal vessel shapes in Greek pottery, a two-handled pot with a neck narrower than the body. Amphorae, which survive in great numbers, were used as storage and transport vessels for olives, cereal, oil, and wine and, in outsize form, for funerals and as grave markers. Wide-mouthed, painted amphorae were used as decanters and were given as prizes.

Black-figure pottery painting, also known as the black-figure style or black-figure ceramic  is one of the styles of painting on antique Greek vases. It was especially common between the 7th and 5th centuries BC, although there are specimens dating as late as the 2nd century BC. 

Our Article is based on the the famous Vatican amphora 344  by Exekias ,c.540–530 BC, which is exhibited in Vatican Museums.

The famous Vatican amphora 344, which is regarded as Exekias’ masterpiece depicts Achilles and Ajax playing a board game, with both men identified by their names added in the genitive. Ajax and Achilles sit across from each other, looking down at a block situated between them. The board game they are playing, which might be compared to a backgammon or checkers variant, was played with a die. Although the two of them are pictured playing, they are clearly depicted as being on duty, accompanied by their body armor and holding their spears, suggesting that they might head back into battle at any moment. There are small details that Exekias adds to this piece that separate it from other depictions of this narrative. Achilles is shown with his helmet still resting on his head which represents he has more power than Ajax. Also, Ajax is shown with his heel slightly lifted, suggesting that he is nervous in the presence of Achilles. Apart from the selection of this very intimate, seemingly relaxed scene as a symbol for the Trojan War, this vase-painting also showcases the talent of Exekias as an artist: the figures of both Achilles and Ajax are decorated with fine incised details, showing elaborate textile patterns and almost every hair in place.