Terracotta fragments 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
2011.604.1.7350a, b
Art Historical Context
These terracotta fragments from a kylix, or shallow drinking cup, were crafted by the renowned Att vase-painter Makron around –480 BCE, during the late Archaic period of ancient. Makron, one of the most prolific artists of his time, specialized in the red-figure technique—a revolutionary method where figures were outlined in black slip, leaving the background fired red to highlight painted details in natural clay tones. This innovation allowed for greater anatomical precision and narrative complexity compared to earlier black-figure styles, marking a pivotal shift toward the Classical era's re...
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...