About this sheet
Large Antique Greek Amphora Chromolithograph, Genick, 1883
Original antique color lithograph depicting an elaborately decorated ancient Greek amphora with a classical warrior scene, published in Berlin in 1883 as part of Albert Genick’s monumental work on Greek ceramics.
This impressive large-format double-page plate presents a richly ornamented amphora with highly distinctive handles and an extensive figural composition. The vessel is decorated in a restrained palette of deep black and terracotta red, closely reflecting the appearance of ancient Greek ceramic decoration.
The principal scene shows three classical figures. At left, a helmeted warrior stands with spear and large round shield. At center, a seated youthful figure holds a leafy branch, with a bird positioned nearby. A third standing figure at right carries a shallow vessel. Additional shields, vegetal motifs and ornamental details enrich the composition.
The amphora’s tall handles are particularly unusual, incorporating circular rosette-like terminals and scrolling ornament. The neck and shoulder are decorated with alternating geometric and vegetal bands, including leaf forms, triangular ornament and meander borders.
At upper right, Genick includes a precise archaeological detail drawing of the handle construction, emphasizing the scholarly character of the publication.
This plate is numbered VIII–IX and was issued as a double-page plate. The horizontal fold through the sheet is therefore original and as published, not later damage.
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)
Publisher: Ernst Wasmuth, Berlin
Printer: Hein & Mosler, Berlin
Plate: VIII–IX
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: Portrait
Period: Late 19th Century
Style: Neoclassical / Archaeological Revival
Condition:
Very good antique condition. Strong black and terracotta coloring with the decorative and figural details remaining well preserved. Original horizontal center fold as issued. Light age-related toning with scattered minor foxing and spotting, principally in the surrounding margins. Minor edge wear 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, Greek amphora, Greek warriors, warrior amphora, ancient Greek pottery, Greek ceramics, Greek vase, amphora print, double page lithograph, classical warriors, Greek mythology, Greek shield, Greek spear, archaeological print, classical antiquity, ancient Greece, Greek art, classical figures, ancient vessels, Greek meander, Greek key, geometric ornament, archaeological illustration, neoclassical decor, Archaeological Revival, antique lithograph, color lithograph, ceramic art, classical art, Greek Revival, Grand Tour, Ernst Wasmuth, Hein Mosler, Berlin 1883, 19th century print, museum style decor
