Ancient Greek, Magna Graecia Terracotta Figurative Oenochoe. 38 cm H. TL tested. 4th century BC.

The Ancient Greek Magna Graecia terracotta figurative oenochoe, standing 38 cm tall and TL tested, dates to the 4th century BC. Magna Graecia refers to the area of southern Italy extensively colonized by Greeks, influencing local art and culture. Oenochoai were wine jugs used in symposia and ritual contexts, often elaborately decorated with figurative scenes depicting mythology, daily life, or theatrical subjects. The size and figurative decoration suggest this oenochoe was a significant ceramic piece, blending functionality with artistic storytelling central to Greek social and religious life. Thermoluminescence (TL) testing confirms the authenticity and age of the ceramic, an important scientific method in archaeology. This piece illuminates the diffusion of Greek culture and artistic practices in the Mediterranean.