Terracotta fragment of a kylix (drinking cup)
Unknown Artist
first quarter of the 5th century BCE
Medium
Terracotta
Classification
Vases
Culture & Period
Greek, Attic · Archaic
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
2011.604.1.3488
Art Historical Context
This terracotta fragment from a kylix, or shallow drinking cup, hails from Attic Greece in the first quarter of the 5th century, during the Archaic period. Crafted by an unknown artist, it exemplifies the exquisite pottery tradition of ancient Athens, where such vessels were essential for symposia—lively social gatherings of men sharing wine, philosophy, and poetry. Though only a piece survives, it offers a glimpse into the refined daily life and artistic prowess of this vibrant era, just before the Classical golden age. Attic vases like this were typically wheel-thrown from fine clay and dec...