Terracotta Hadra hydria (water jar)
Unknown Artist
On the body of the vase is a representation of a shield decorated with the head of the gorgon Medusa. The white slip and polychrome painting were probably added when the hydria was re-used as a cinerary urn, with the shield serving to protect the remains of the deceased. Unlike the other Hadra hydria displayed here, this vase was probably of local manufacture.
Credit: Purchase, 1890
3rd century B.C.
Terracotta
40.5 x 40.5 cm
90.9.67
Image and text © Metropolitan Museum of Art, 2018
Where you'll find this
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Permanent collection
