An Etruscan Black-Figure Hydria: The Judgment of Paris in Archaic Etruria

Abstract

Abstract This paper assesses a rediscovered Etruscan black-figure hydria in the collection of the Higgins Museum, Bedford. It is immediately apparent that the hydria depicts the Judgment of Paris, common on contemporary Greek vases imported into Etruria. This discussion seeks to attribute the hydria to the Micali Painter. The discovery of this vase allows for a greater study of the attributes of figures present in already known Archaic Etruscan Judgment of Paris scenes. As certain consistent elements become recognizable on these examples, this analysis suggests that Etruscan artists were not simply copying the iconography of Greek imported vases; indeed, the attributes of the deities depicted on the vase indicate an engagement with, and deeper understanding of, the subject.