 Then, as now, very little was known of the amphora’s provenance.It is thought to originate from the Etruscan city of Vulci, north-west of Rome – Ure noted that the scene of Achilles’ ambush of Troilos was a popular one for decorating tombs in the area.A poorly written description in the auction catalogue enabled Ure, after seeking advice from Sir John Beazley, to acquire it at a relatively economic price.