Terracotta fragment of an open shape
Unknown Artist
6th/5th centuries BCE
Medium
Terracotta
Classification
Vases
Culture & Period
Greek, Attic · Archaic/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
2011.604.6.132
Art Historical Context
This terracotta fragment from an open-shaped vase, dating to the 6th or 5th century BCE offers a glimpse into the vibrant world of Attic Greek pottery during the Archaic and early Classical periods. Produced in Athens, the heart of ancient Greek artistic innovation, such vessels were everyday essentials—likely a kylix, bowl, or similar form used for drinking wine at symposia or social gatherings. Though only a fragment survives, it exemplifies the durability of terracotta, a fired clay medium prized for its affordability and versatility. Attic vases like this one were cultural powerhouses, ex...