About this sheet
Antique Greek Amphorae Classical Pottery Color Lithograph, 1883
Original antique color lithograph depicting two 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 amphorae. The vessel on the left has a predominantly black body with twisted handles and a single standing draped male figure rendered in terracotta red. He holds a long staff and stands above a traditional Greek-key meander border.
The more elaborate amphora on the right is richly decorated with black, terracotta and additional colored details. Its central frieze contains a lively procession or group of figures, surrounded by multiple ornamental bands. The neck carries a large symmetrical palmette motif, while birds and further decorative elements appear around the shoulder of the vessel.
Two smaller archaeological line drawings between and above the amphorae record details associated with the pottery decoration.
The juxtaposition of the restrained black amphora with the richly ornamented second vessel makes this a particularly attractive and visually varied plate from the series. Its horizontal format also makes it especially suitable for 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: IV
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 the additional colors of the decorated amphora remaining well preserved. Light age-related toning with scattered minor foxing and spotting, principally in the surrounding background and 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.
