6th century BC. An Archaic buffware flask formed as a Corinthian aryballos warrior head wearing helmet; flat rim to mouth of the vessel and painted geometric decoration. See Folsom, R.S., Handbook of Greek Pottery, London, 1967, for discussion.80 grams, 70mm (2 3/4"). Property of a London businessman; formerly in the collection of Mr B.M., London, UK, since the 1990s; previously in a UK collection; this lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by AIAD certificate number no. 10443-168748. Aryballoi were used by the ancient Greeks to store perfume or oil, and are frequently depicted in vase paintings as being used by athletes during bathing. The broad rim was designed to prevent spillages, because the contents were precious. The Archaic period to which this item belongs saw a significant shift in Greek artistic practices, from abstract geometric forms to a naturalistic style influenced by Egypt and the Near East. [A video of this lot is available to view on TimeLine Auctions website.] Fine condition.