Neck Amphora (storage jar): Herakles and the Nemean Lion; Theseus and the Minotaur c. 540

Editor: This neck amphora, attributed to Near Exekias, depicts Herakles and the Nemean Lion on one side, and Theseus and the Minotaur on the other. The figures are striking in their black silhouettes against the orange background. What cultural narratives do you see being conveyed through these images? Curator: The continuous representation of heroic tales like Herakles and Theseus on everyday objects like this amphora suggests a deep cultural investment in these myths. These images weren't just decoration; they reinforced societal values of courage and triumph over adversity. Do you notice how their struggles mirror each other? Editor: I see the parallel now. Both heroes confronting beasts! This really underscores how intertwined art and cultural identity were in ancient Greece. Thanks for pointing that out! Curator: Exactly! And thinking about what liquids might have been stored in this amphora, what associations do you make?