In the eighth century B.C., Greek settlers left their homeland behind and established a string of colonies along the Adriatic coast of Southern Italy. After the rise of Rome centuries later, this region would become known by the Latin term Magna Graecia, literally “Greater Greece,” due to the dense concentration of Greek settlements. The Greeks flourished here alongside the native populations, amassing great wealth through trade and importing their Hellenic culture throughout the area. They in turn were influenced by their neighbors, so that Magna Graecian pottery developed into a unique style that reflected both Greek and native Italian traditions. The Daunians were one such native culture that lived alongside the Greek colonies. Daunian pottery can be characterized by its rounded forms, geometric, linear designs, and eathern tones. The Greeks adopted some of the Daunian forms for themselves, revealing the cultural interplay that so distinguishes the art of Magna Graecia, both in respects to the Greeks as well as the native peoples such as the Daunians.

Having a graceful, double barrel-shape linked by an arched handle, this charming pot is covered with delicate patterns largely taken from nature, in which we can still see the flowing brush of the ancient artisan. Waves encircle the shoulder, plant fronds cover the handle, and a leaping dolphin appears in one of the lower panels. The double body would suggest a ceremonial or ritual function. This is a rare and lovely vessel that seems very much a reflection of the natural surroundings of Magna Graecia.