A Vase in the form of a Siren

Terracotta
East Greek, Rhodes, ca. 530 BC
H. 13.1cm; L. 15.4cm

A mould-made terracotta vessel in shape of a Siren. The mythical creature has the body of a bird with spreading tail and folded wings and the head of a woman turned to the right. These mythical creatures were dangerous beauties, famous for luring sailors to their deaths with their irresistible song. The facial features are rendered lively with the Siren’s mouth showing a hint of the so called “archaic smile”.

Cf. R.A. Higgins, Terracottas in the British Museum (Oxford 1954) 52 f., Nr. 75-78; Pl. 16, 75-77.;

Condition: Parts of the spout and the bird’s tail are restored, otherwise very good and intact.

Provenance: Formerly priv. coll. of Dr. U. W., Biel, Switzerland.

Item reference: CL0093