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
2011.604.1.7277
Art Historical Context
This exquisite terracotta fragment from a kylix, or shallow drinking cup, crafted by renowned Attic vase-painter Makron around –480 BCE, offers a glimpse into the vibrant of ancient Greek symposia. Makron, active during the late Archaic period, was master of the red-figure—a revolutionary method where figures were outlined in black slip, leaving the clay's natural red color to shine through for skin tones and details. This innovation allowed for greater anatomical precision and narrative complexity compared to earlier black-figure styles. Kylixes like this one were essential to elite male dri...
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...