About this sheet
Antique Greek Vases, Cooling Vessel & Amphorae Lithograph, 1883
Original antique color lithograph depicting three examples of ancient Greek ceramics—a large cooling vessel and two amphorae—published in Berlin in 1883 as part of Albert Genick’s monumental work on Greek ceramics.
This impressive landscape-format plate is titled “1 Kühlgefäss 2 3 Amphoren” and presents three contrasting vessel forms, each with its own distinctive decoration.
Dominating the center is a large ancient Greek cooling vessel with a broad rounded body raised on a substantial foot. Its principal red-figure decoration depicts three animated classical figures in flowing garments. Their dynamic poses create a particularly lively composition, framed on either side by large scrolling palmette ornaments.
At right is a monumental two-handled amphora decorated with two standing male figures. One appears in military dress with helmet and armor, while the other, wrapped in a cloak, gestures toward him. A traditional Greek-key meander border runs above and below the figural scene.
The smaller amphora at left provides an attractive contrast. Its predominantly black body is enriched with terracotta, cream and pale pink ornament, including a decorative band of stylized motifs across the shoulder.
Above the vessels, Genick includes an archaeological line drawing recording an ornamental detail from the pottery. These technical studies reflect the scholarly purpose of the original publication while adding further visual interest to the composition.
The combination of three different vessel forms, classical figures, geometric decoration and strong black-and-terracotta coloring makes this an especially attractive and varied 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 color lithographic plates, including four double-page plates, illustrating amphorae, kraters, cooling vessels, 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)
Printer: Hein & Mosler, Berlin
Plate: XXIII
Title on plate: 1 Kühlgefäss 2 3 Amphoren
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 and terracotta coloring with additional cream and pale-colored details remaining well preserved. 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.
