Etruscan

Used to store liquids, stamnoi were wide-mouthed jars with lids and two horizontal handles. In Etruria, the handles of stamnoi often took the form of hands. When the vessel is picked up, the hands on the handles become directly associated with the hands of the person who carries the vessel. The beautiful dark blue and rich green patina on the surface of the stamnos results from the bronze’s oxidation process over a long period of time.