RF Mug – Young Athlete in the Gymnasium

RF Mug – Young Athlete in the GymnasiumRed Figure Mug with a Young Athlete Inspired by an Attic red figure kypelon (type of oinochoe) attributed to the Eretria Painter, this elegant mug reproduces a quiet moment from ancient athletic life. The original, dated to 430420 BCE, is housed in the Getty Museum (86. AE. 243). The scene shows a young nude athlete squatting with hands on his knees, poised on the balls of his feet a posture of rest after training. Hanging behind him is an aryballos,

Red-Figure Mug with a Young Athlete

Inspired by an Attic red-figure kypelon (type of oinochoe) attributed to the Eretria Painter, this elegant mug reproduces a quiet moment from ancient athletic life. The original, dated to 430–420 BCE, is housed in the Getty Museum (86.AE.243).

The scene shows a young nude athlete squatting with hands on his knees, poised on the balls of his feet — a posture of rest after training. Hanging behind him is an aryballos, a small flask for perfumed oil used in the baths, while he appears to hold a sponge, another essential item in the cleansing rituals of the gymnasium.

Though classified as a type of oinochoe — a jug used for pouring liquids — this compact, mug-like shape likely served practical purposes such as drinking, ladling, or measuring.

The Eretria Painter, active in Athens in the late 5th century BCE, remains anonymous. Yet his distinct hand — refined, balanced, and at times miniaturist — prompted Sir John Beazley to group a large number of works under his name. Though he was known for decorating cups, some of his most intimate and tender scenes appear on small vessels like this one.

Dimensions H : 10cm, Rim D : 9cm, Max L : 11,5cm