Attic white Lekythos vase.

Attic vase on a white background, by the painter of Achilles *.

Achilles wears his armour, with the guidance of Athena. The Goddess stands before him holding the spear, and the shield. The back again shows the hero holding the helmet and shield, while his mother, Theaeta, stands in front of him, holding the spear.
The upper part of the vase shows a representation of anthems.

Circa 440-435  B.C

Vatican.

*One of the most important painters of the period was the painter Achilles, who was active already before the middle of the century and at least until about 430 BC. He had a particular preference for the detailed drawing of solitary figures lost in the white background of large vases. His figures are characterised by nobility, restrained emotion and harmonious balance, while the scenes he chose exude an atmosphere of heroism and idealisation.