Etruscan Red Figure Bell Krater with Hoplites

 Circa late 5th century BC This technique to imitate ‘red-figure is with red slip 'superposed' --sovraddipinta-- applied on top of the black ground of this rather large and impressive  inverted ceramic bell shape vessel with twin handles under the rim.  Used in the symposium as a wine and water mixing vessel. Obverse decorate with two helmeted nude warriors holding spears and shields, The bird between them is apparently a token of victory rather than ill-omened, as it flies toward the presumed winner, whom Nike approaches to deck with a celebratory fillet. She wears a belted peplos. Reverse has two draped standing figures.  Both scenes are on a on a key pattern ground line and there are laurel leaves in a band under rim.Size: 14 inches H. x 16 inches W. at handles.Condition: Foot repaired from about dozen pieces and overall wear or else intact. Provenance: Ex HW acq 1990s or earlier, then by descent to DB, New Paltz NY.