Etruscan, Etruria

Beginning in the 6th century BCE the Etruscans exported bucchero, a fine, dark-gray to black ceramic, throughout the Mediterranean region. Exported Etruscan wares have turned up in shipwrecks from the era as well as in Greek cities and sanctuaries. This vessel is a common form for the period. The bowl was constructed separately from the stem and then attached. The male heads on the large, flat rim, all made with the same shallow mold, were affixed after shaping the bowl. The profile view of the heads is unusual; similar pieces more commonly have frontal views of these figures.