Terracotta fragment of a kylix (drinking cup)
500–480 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
2011.604.1.7164
Art Historical Context
This exquisite terracotta fragment from a kylix, or shallow drinking cup, comes from the skilled hands of Makron, one of the finest Attic red-figure vase active around 500–480 BCE. Hailing from Archaic Greece, this piece reflects the late Archaic period's transition toward Classical elegance, when Athenian potters and painters like Makron elevated everyday ceramics into works of art. Donated to the Metropolitan Museum of Art 2011 by distinguished curator Dietrich von Bothmer, it offers a glimpse into the vibrant world of ancient symposia—lively drinking parties where such kylikes were essentia...
About the Artist
Makron
Makron stands as one of the most prolific masters of Attic red-figure vase painting, active in Athens around 490–480 BC during the late Archaic to early Classical transition.) Little is known of his early life or formal training, as such details remain undocumented for many ancient potters and painters of this era. Exclusively employing the red-figure technique—which allowed for intricate detailin...