Terracotta fragment of a kylix (drinking cup)

Art Historical Context

This terracotta fragment from a kylix, or shallow drinking cup, hails from Etruscan culture in the late 5th to early 4th century, during the Classical period The Etruscans, an ancient Italic civilization flourishing in central Italy before Roman dominance, were avid adopters of Greek pottery forms and techniques, blending them into their own vibrant artistic traditions. Kylikes like this one were essential for symposia—lively social gatherings centered on wine, conversation, and ritual—highlighting the cup's role in everyday elite life and communal feasting. Crafted from terracotta, the fragm...