This fine ewer, or pitcher, would have been placed on a matching basin (for washing one's hands or face) bearing the same (unidentified) coat of arms. Given how easily earthenware is broken, it is not surprising that the basin is lost; few complete sets survive. The greek hero perseus stands before a serene landscape holding the severed head of the feared gorgon, medusa, a female monster with snakes for hair. Perseus accepted the challenge of slaying her in order to save his mother from a forced marriage. Date: between circa 1550 and circa 1560 (Renaissance). Place of creation: Urbino, Italy. Dimensions: 34.3 × 14.2 cm (13.5 × 5.5 in). Medium: earthenware. Collection: Walters Art Museum.
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