Kantharos
Unknown Artist
650–625 BCE
Medium
Terracotta
Dimensions
5 15/16 × 6 in. (15.1 × 15.2 cm) Diam. of foot: 2 7/8 in. (7.3 cm)
Classification
Vases
Culture & Period
Etruscan · Archaic
Department
Greek and Roman Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Purchase, 1896
Accession Number
96.9.160
Art Historical Context
Step into the vibrant world of ancient Etruria with this exquisite terracotta kantharos, a drinking cup from the Archaic period (650–625 BCE). Crafted by an unknown artist, this modest yet elegant vessel measures just under 6 inches tall and wide, with a sturdy foot 2⅞ inches across. Etruscans, the sophisticated civilization that thrived in central Italy before Roman dominance, were masterful potters who drew inspiration from Greek prototypes. The kantharos form—characterized by its deep bowl and tall, curving handles rising above the rim—was a staple at symposia, elite banquets where wine flo...