This paper presents a method of analysing the time element in narrative vase-painting, introducing abstract and concrete as parameters in the analysis. They are finer tools than the existing terminology, allowing different elements within a complicated picture to be labelled rather than just the picture as a whole. Metamorphosis subjects are particularly well suited as time-analysis subjects, since the double appearances of the transforming persons provide a special challenge. A selection of vase-paintings representing Actaion and Circe are analysed and it is argued that the theatre inspired perception in the concrete manner. It is also argued that established types of representation played an important role in vase-painting.