Terracotta fragment of a bell-krater (bowl for mixing wine and water)
Unknown Artist
440 BCE
Medium
Terracotta
Classification
Vases
Culture & Period
Greek, Attic · Classical
Department
Greek and Roman Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Dietrich von Bothmer, Distinguished Research Curator, Greek and Roman Art, 2011
Accession Number
2011.604.2.880
Art Historical Context
This terracotta fragment from a bell-krater, dating to 440 BCE, offers a tantalizing glimpse into Classical Athenian life. A bell-krater was a wide-mouthed mixing bowl essential for symposia—lively Greek social gatherings where wine was diluted with water to promote conversation and moderation. Crafted in Attic Greece during the height of the city's cultural and democratic golden age, this piece exemplifies the everyday elegance of ancient pottery, shaped for both utility and display. Though only a fragment survives, it reflects the masterful terracotta techniques of Attic vase-makers, fired ...