Cypro-Classical Plain White Ware Wine Jug (Oinochoe)

Cypro-Classical I Period, c. 475–400 BC, Republic of Cyprus

This exceptional wheel-made pottery wine jug, or oinochoe, crafted in Plain White Ware VI during the Cypro-Classical I period, exemplifies the refined simplicity and functionality characteristic of ancient Cypriot ceramics. The jug features an elegant ovoid-biconical body resting on a low conical foot, a conical neck, and a distinctive trefoil spout designed for precise pouring. A single high strap handle, gracefully extending from the rim to the vessel's waist, complements its symmetrical form. Shallow parallel grooves encircle the body, subtly enhancing its aesthetic appeal. The jug is fashioned from coarse, light buff clay with white grits, further emphasizing its rustic yet sophisticated craftsmanship.

Cypriot pottery has a rich heritage dating back to the Neolithic period, evolving significantly through the centuries as Cyprus became a cultural and commercial hub in the ancient Mediterranean. During the Early and Middle Bronze Ages, Cypriot artisans produced innovative and imaginative ceramics, and these artistic traditions continued into the Cypro-Classical period. The Plain White Ware technique gained popularity during this time, especially for utilitarian and ceremonial vessels like this oinochoe. Its form reflects the influence of Levantine designs, particularly the dipper sack-shaped jugs, while embodying the unique stylistic identity of Cyprus.

The island of Cyprus, strategically located at the crossroads of the Aegean, Anatolia, the Levant, and Egypt, played a vital role in the ancient Mediterranean trade networks. During the Classical period, it was under Persian control, but its artistic traditions remained vibrant and distinctive. Following Alexander the Great’s conquests, Cyprus enjoyed a brief period of autonomy before being annexed by Ptolemaic Egypt, further enriching its cultural influences. This wine jug is more than just a functional vessel—it is a testament to the artistic and cultural sophistication of ancient Cyprus. With its graceful proportions and historical significance, it would be a remarkable addition to any collection of ancient Mediterranean artifacts or Cypriot ceramics.

Excellent condition. Intact. No chips, cracks or fractures. Rootmarks and light earthen deposits. Museum number: S.R: 7371/75. Size approx. 17,5cm x 11,5cm x 11,5cm. 

NB! Comes with original documents, including Licence to Export Antiquities No. 99370, issued under Antiquities Law, Cap. 43, Form F.18. Republic of Cyprus, Department of Antiquities, dated and signed 9.1.1979.

Provenance: 

Cyprus Archaeological Museum, Nicosia, Cyprus.

acquired from the above, 1979

with danish private collection

For a similar examples see:

Jug, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Accession Number: 74.51.427 (https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/240013)

Trefoil Jug, Penn Museum, University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, Accession Number: 54-41-28 (https://www.penn.museum/collections/object/292959)

References and further reading:

Pottery of Geometric, Archaic and Classical periods in Cyprus,  Anna, P. Georgiadou, Kyprios Character. History, Archaeology & Numismatics of Ancient Cyprus (kyprioscharacter.eie.gr/en/t/A0)

Pottery Types, Cypro-Geometric to Cypro-Classical, Einar Gjerstad, Opuscula Atheniensia. 7 (7): pp. 105–122, 1960.

Handbook of the Cesnola Collection of Antiquities from Cyprus, John L. Myres, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, 1914.

Swedish Cyprus Expedition IV, 2. The Cypro-geometric, Cypro-archaic and Cypro-classical Periods, Einar Gjerstad, Stockholm: Swedish Cyprus Expedition, 1948.