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Alabaster cinerary urn

3rd century BCE
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 170
The reclining woman represented on the lid wears a heavy torque necklace and holds a fan in her right hand. The frieze depicts two pairs of Greeks fighting Amazons, while the Etruscan death demon Vanth stands at the right. The Amazonomachy is well known from Greek art, especially from the fourth century on, and also appears on other Etruscan works in this gallery. The inclusion of the Vanth is a characteristic Etruscan addition to the representation. Vestiges of paint survive in the eyes, shields, and belts.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Alabaster cinerary urn
  • Period: Hellenistic
  • Date: 3rd century BCE
  • Culture: Etruscan
  • Medium: Alabaster
  • Dimensions: H. with cover 33 1/2 in. (85.1 cm); H. without cover 17 1/4 in. (43.8 cm); length 25 in. (63.5 cm)
  • Classification: Stone Sculpture
  • Credit Line: Purchase, 1896
  • Object Number: 96.9.225a, b
  • Curatorial Department: Greek and Roman Art

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