Rare and exceptionally large amphora/hydria vase by the renowned Danish ceramic workshop P. Ipsens Enke, produced between 1870 and 1890 as an interpretation of ancient Greek black-figure vases dating from 600–500 BC.

The vase is hand-decorated in the classical black-figure technique, featuring black-painted motifs on a terracotta-red ground — inspired by the ceremonial and narrative vessels of ancient Greece.
Details were incised into the black surface, allowing the red clay beneath to appear as fine linear accents, faithfully echoing the methods of the original ancient works. The process required multiple firings and considerable ceramic precision.

The decoration features richly detailed mythological and athletic scenes, including running athletes, satyrs engaged in Bacchanalian festivities, discus throwers with instructors, and musical scenes referencing Apollo and the ancient flute player.

The distinctive owl integrated into the handles refers to the symbolism of wisdom and the goddess Athena in classical antiquity.

The vessel takes the form of a hydria — a type of ancient Greek water jar traditionally used for storing and carrying water.

Height: 67 cm.
Made in Denmark, 1870–90.

The lower section has been professionally restored after the original by ceramicist Erik Kargaard circa 1980.
The restoration is signed and executed with great respect for the vase’s original form and expression. Erik Kargaard worked for, among others, Knabstrup Keramik and was recognised for the high craftsmanship of his independent studio work.