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Kunsthistorisches Museum

Incised, Painted, Concealed Inscriptions on Greek vases

Vitrine EXTRA #7
5 September 2025 until 1 March 2026

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Ribbon-handle Amphora

Detail: Signature of the potter and workshop owner Nikosthenes 
Attic black-figure, around 530 BCE 
Clay 
H. 34.5 cm 
Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna, Collection of Greek and Roman Antiquities 
© KHM-Museumsverband

Die Abbildung zeigt eine antike griechische Vase mit schwarzer Bemalung. Darauf sind menschliche Figuren und dekorative Motive in Form von Tropfen und Kreisen zu sehen. Am Rand ist eine Inschrift, die den Namen „Nikosorenes” zeigt.
Ribbon-handle Amphora

ca. 530 BCE, Greek
Attic black-figure, around 530 BCE
Clay
H. 34.5 cm
Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna, Collection of Greek and Roman Antiquities
© KHM-Museumsverband

Wine Jug

Scene in a textile shop, the inscriptions on the background have no linguistic sense
Attic black-figure, around 550 BCE
Clay
H. 22.5 cm
Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna, Collection of Greek and Roman Antiquities
© KHM-Museumsverband

A decorated ancient Greek amphora features two women depicted in profile, each carrying a large object on their shoulders. The women are dressed in traditional attire, and the vase is predominantly black with orange figures, showcasing intricate details typical of the artistic style of the period.
Neck Amphora

Detail of side B: Ajax carries Achilles’ body from the battlefield 
Attic black-figure, around 500 BCE 
Clay H. 26.5 cm 
Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna, Collection of Greek and Roman Antiquities 
© KHM-Museumsverband

A detailed depiction of a Greek warrior in armor, holding a shield and spear, is illustrated on an ancient vase. The warrior appears to be in motion, suggesting action or readiness for battle, with stylized patterns and motifs enhancing the background.
Neck Amphora

Detail of side B: Ajax carries Achilles’ body from the battlefield, the inscriptions on the background have no linguistic sense 
Attic black-figure, around 500 BCE 
ClayH. 26.5 cm 
Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna, Collection of Greek and Roman Antiquities 
© KHM-Museumsverband

A clay amphora features intricate black-figure pottery design. The main scene depicts a soldier engaged in battle, surrounded by shields and other warriors. The vessel has two handles and a decorative band near the top, showcasing classical Greek art style.
Exhibition view

Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna, Collection of Greek and Roman Antiquities 
© KHM-Museumsverband

Exhibition view

Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna, Collection of Greek and Roman Antiquities 
© KHM-Museumsverband

Exhibition view

Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna, Collection of Greek and Roman Antiquities 
© KHM-Museumsverband

Exhibition view

Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna, Collection of Greek and Roman Antiquities 
© KHM-Museumsverband

Neck Amphora

Detail of side B: Ajax carries Achilles’ body from the battlefield, the inscriptions on the background have no linguistic sense 
Attic black-figure, around 500 BCE 
ClayH. 26.5 cm 
Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna, Collection of Greek and Roman Antiquities 
© KHM-Museumsverband

Press contact

Mag. Dr. Wolfgang Lamprecht (Head)
T +43 1 525 24 4021

Mag. Sarah Aistleitner
T +43 1 525 24 4025

Tanja Stigler
T +43 1 525 24 4019

presse@khm.at

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