2-969-865 - /Heritage Images

Figures upon a Vase recently found at Cumae, [Italy], 1856. Design on an ancient Greek vase showing '...the battle between the Greeks and the Amazons, and it is somewhat of a peculiarity that, with the exception of two, where the letters are effaced, every figure has its name above it, yet inscribed so delicately, that a glass is required to read them. A glance is sufficient to show the spirit, the ease, the elegance which mark the figures. There is nothing stiff or cramped - it is the flexibility of nature we look upon, and we feel almost that the combatants are inspired with life...Cumae had undoubtedly a high reputation for its terra-cotta works'. Cumae [modern Cuma, Naples] was the first ancient Greek colony on the mainland of Italy, founded in the 8th century BC. From "Illustrated London News", 1856.