This gorgeous pyxis is composed of two circular hemispherical halves. The bottom bowl is decorated with a laureate band while the upper lid features the busts of two women and palmette motifs. The style of painting is typical of the Apulian region of the Greek colonies in southern Italy. White highlights define the women’s necklaces, earrings, and hairstyles. The spherical shape of this pyxis is rare, although not unheard of. In antiquity, this would have been used by women to house jewelry or other such little precious trinkets. Even today, women continue to keep their treasures in luxurious containers that both protect and enhance the prestige of the items. Surely this phenomenon can trace its roots back to objects like this pyxis. Over two thousand years ago, a Greek noble lady living in southern Italy might have safeguarded her priceless jewelry in this pyxis. However, today the pyxis has become the treasure. Although the contents it once contained have long since disappeared, the beauty and history of this pyxis astounds us in itself. Today, we appreciate it for what it is, not for what it holds. - (PF.5986)

Antiquities
Ancient Unknown