The oenochoe published in B.S.A. xxviii., 1926–7, Plate VII, has a value beyond its own particular interest in that it serves to link together a series of vases which have hitherto been considered independently of each other, and have in common this peculiarity, that they are very difficult to date. The oenochoe has been assigned to the early years of Laconian III (B.S.A. xxviii. p. 68), but it has certain features which suggest that it may belong to a later period. The careful and elaborate work, the complete covering of slip and the use of purple paint in the bands of tongue and pomegranate pattern: these points all suggest an early date, but they are at the same time features which might persist later. The vase has the rather squat shape which is typical of the fourth period, and therefore is not likely to be found before the end of the third. The pomegranate pattern on the neck is resolved into its separate members; this foreshadows the latest development of the pattern, which in the third period usually has the form of a continuous band linked by the stems. The later examples, however, are simpler and have a straight cross-bar; here the pattern is more decorative with its curved lines and spots.