Psiax

Psiax ( ancient Greek Ψίαξ ) was an Attic vase painter of the transitional period of the black-figure to red-figure technique. His works from the period 525-505 BC includes about 60 traditional vases, two of which bear his signature. Originally he was described by John D. Beazley as Menon Painter. Only later whose identity was recognized as the " Psiax " signed artist.

Psiax collaborated with the potters Hilinos, Menon, Andokides and Nikosthenes. Malte he first in the black-figure technique, he played in the development of the red-figure style, which was invented in the workshop of Andokides a significant role. The acting also there black- Antimenes painter is Psiax close stylistically; John D. Beazley described both as "brothers ". It is not surprising that Psiax was a master of technique bilinguals (black- and red-figure technique together on the front and back of a vase).

His signature is known only from two red-figure alabastra in Karlsruhe and Odessa, who are also signed by the potter Hilinos. Three of the works he painted have the signature of the potter Andokides. The painting of Kyathoi and the use of the Six - art point to his collaboration with Nikosthenes. The young Epiktetos imitated Psiax, the "pioneers" Euphronios and Phintias were his pupils.

Psiax painted primarily smaller vessels, which suits his delicate style of painting. There are, however, larger vessels such as amphorae, hydriai and calyx krater in the work of the artist. Also there are his characters less powerful and vital as sublime and restrained. Although he experimented with the possibilities of new technology (perspective ), but he was more concerned on the typical for the Spätarchaik delicacy and decorative effect of his pictures. He does not stop at the black - and red-figure technique, but also experimented with black figures on a white or coral- red ground and the Six technique.

The choice of his subjects nothing special, yet a preference for team scenes and archers to notice.

Works (selection)

  • Brescia, Museo
  • Karlsruhe, Baden State Museum
  • London, British Museum
  • Madrid, Museo Nacional Arqueologico
  • Malibu, J. Paul Getty Museum
  • New York, Metropolitan Museum
  • Odessa Archaeological Museum
  • Philadelphia, University Museum
  • St. Petersburg, Hermitage, black-figure kantharos depicting Heracles and the mares of Diomedes, devouring a stable master
Olympia, Greece Antikensammlung Berlin Attica 525 BC Bilingual vase painting Alabastron Six's technique Phintias (painter) Andokides painter Euthymides Smikros
563910
de