Artwork

Bol (fragment)

Bol (fragment), by Unknown, 1350
Bol (fragment), by Unknown, 1350

Bol (fragment) is a photography by Unknown. It dates from 1350 and is held in the collection of the National Museum of Art of Romania. The fragment is a piece of pottery bearing a weathered scene of two figures in a boat.

About this work

Overview

The fragment is a piece of pottery bearing a weathered scene of two figures in a boat. The image is rendered in muted brown and cream tones, with portions of the surface chipped and the edges uneven from long‑term wear. The composition is outlined by a decorative border of swirling lines that frames the central motif.

Subject & Meaning

The central tableau depicts a small vessel occupied by two individuals, one grasping a long pole that may have been used for navigation or fishing. Behind them rise stylized, vertical forms interpreted as reeds or other aquatic vegetation, suggesting a riverine or lagoon setting. The simplicity of the figures points to a functional narrative rather than elaborate mythological storytelling.

Technique & Style

The design is executed in a low‑relief incised or painted technique, typical of utilitarian ceramics in the region. The limited palette of earth tones and the use of repetitive geometric borders reflect a conventional aesthetic employed for everyday objects, where decoration served both identification and modest ornamentation.

History & Provenance

The fragment originates from a domestic context, indicating it was part of a vessel used in daily activities rather than a ceremonial piece. Its current location is within the collection of the Museum of Ethnography, which houses comparable artifacts that illustrate the material culture of the community that produced it.

castron
castron, Unknown

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Bol (fragment)?

Bol (fragment) was painted by Unknown in 1350.

Where can I see Bol (fragment)?

Bol (fragment) is held by National Museum of Art of Romania.