107 - Handle of a hydria; Greece, 4th–2nd centuries B.C.

Handle of a hydria; Greece, 4th–2nd centuries B.C. Bronze. Measurements: 8 x 18 cm. Provenance: Family legacy of Ramon Martí Alsina and Ricard Martí Aguiló. Archaeological collection formed from the 1950s by successive generations of the family, through acquisitions in European galleries and auction houses. Weight: 329 g. Large Greek bronze handle, part of a hydria. The handle can be dated to between the 4th and 2nd centuries B.C. This handle belonged to a large vessel, called a “hydria,” which was typically used to store water or liquids in large quantities. It may have belonged to a vessel from a temple, as the ceremonial omega-shaped form was typical, signifying the final ablutions of the rites performed for the gods. It has an elliptical cross-section, with grooves on the upper part to facilitate a firm grip and two horse heads at both ends. It is in perfect condition except for a slight scratch on the back of one of the horses’ heads. Originally part of an important German archaeological collection, it later entered a Spanish archaeological collection through an international auction.