Jug
Unknown Artist
Medium
Terracotta
Dimensions
H. 3 7/8 in. (9.9 cm)
Classification
Vases
Culture & Period
Cypriot · Iron Age
Department
Greek and Roman Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
The Cesnola Collection, Purchased by subscription, 1874–76
Accession Number
74.51.452
Art Historical Context
This delicate terracotta jug, hailing from ancient Cyprus during the Iron Age (roughly 1050–333 BCE), exemplifies the everyday craftsmanship of a vibrant Mediterranean culture at the crossroads of trade and influence. Standing just 3 7/8 inches (9.9 cm) tall, its modest size suggests it was likely used for pouring liquids like oil, wine, or water in domestic settings—vessels like this were essential to daily life, from households to rituals. Crafted from fired clay, a durable and abundant medium, the jug reflects Cypriot potters' skill in shaping functional forms on the wheel or by hand befor...