About this sheet
Antique Greek Amphorae with Mythological Figures Color Lithograph, 1883
Original antique color lithograph depicting two richly decorated ancient Greek amphorae, published in Berlin in 1883 as part of Albert Genick’s monumental work on Greek ceramics.
This impressive landscape-format plate presents two contrasting examples of ancient Greek pottery, both extensively decorated with figural and ornamental scenes.
The larger amphora on the left is distinguished by its patterned terracotta handles and broad narrative frieze. A group of standing figures in elaborate dress occupies the principal scene, accompanied by animals including dogs. The figures are rendered in black, terracotta and deep red, creating an unusually rich and decorative composition. Geometric and ornamental borders surround the scene, while radiating decoration emphasizes the lower section of the vessel.
The smaller amphora on the right is equally striking. Its principal scene depicts a dramatic mythological encounter between several figures, including a central hybrid or animal-bodied figure. The scene is surrounded by scrolling vegetal ornament, palmettes, geometric bands and a Greek-key meander. A richly patterned palmette frieze decorates the neck.
Between the two vessels are small archaeological drawings recording details of their construction and decoration.
The strong black, terracotta and deep-red palette, combined with the abundance of classical figures and ornament, makes this one of the particularly decorative plates from Genick’s series. Its horizontal format also lends itself especially well to display above a console, desk or fireplace.
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)
Printer: Hein & Mosler, Berlin
Plate: V
Edition: Second edition
Sheet size: Approximately 46 x 68 cm (18.1 x 26.8 inches)
Orientation: Landscape
Period: Late 19th Century
Style: Neoclassical / Archaeological Revival
Condition:
Very good antique condition. Strong black, terracotta and deep-red coloring with the details of the vessels remaining well preserved. Light age-related toning with scattered minor foxing and spotting, principally in the 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.
