Greek Painted Vases - Amphora

            This vase was completed around 490 bc by a famous artist of the time, referred to as the Berlin artist. This artist was known for forgoing the use of rigid frames to outline his figures so that the contour of the vase is still prominent and the focus of the piece is on the solitary figure in the middle.  This particular figure is a musician, who is playing a kithara, which is a wooden string instrument.  The figure on the other side is said to be either an instructor or a judge who is actively listening to the kitharode (as the musician was referred to).  The purpose of these amphora vases was to hold or transport grapes, olive oil, wine, oil, or grains.  I chose this vase because I find its shape very aesthetically pleasing.