600-200 BC. Apulia. Daunian bell krater with flaring rim, bell-shaped body, rounded stem, disc-shaped base and two lug handles. The cream-coloured rim and body is painted with beautiful deep red bands and the area around the body, level with the lug handles features a repeating leaf motif. A krater is a large ceramic vessel used for mixing wine during drinking parties (symposia) in ancient societies. Ancient wine was considerably stronger than its modern counterparts and often had to be mixed with water, spices and honey in order to make it less potent. Excellent condition.Size: L:270mm / W:235mm ; 1.7kg; Provenance: From the private collection of a Kent gentleman; previously in an old British collection, formed in the 1980s on the UK /European art markets.