Flaring outwards from the striated base, the sides of this remarkable chalice are ornamented with human and animal figures. On the upper portion a male and female pair alternate between...
Flaring outwards from the striated base, the sides of this remarkable chalice are ornamented with human and animal figures. On the upper portion a male and female pair alternate between lizards. The male's left arm is extended, while in his right he holds a horn. He is naked except for a wide loincloth, and wears a peaked cap or headdress. The female also wears a loincloth, her breasts are exposed, her left hand rests on a knee, and in her right hand she too holds a horn. Both lizards crawling up the sides are beautifully modeled and lifelike. On the lower portion four realistic frogs face upwards, their bodies having the appearance of being soft to the touch. The remarkable skill required to create this very rare work of art, its subtlety, refined imagery and perfect balance makes this chalice a masterpiece.