Terracotta fragments of kylikes (drinking cups)
Unknown Artist
5th century 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
2011.604.1.1497a, b
Art Historical Context
These terracotta fragments from kylikes, or shallow drinking cups, hail from Attic Greece in the 5th century BCE, the Archaic and Classical periods. in Athens, the heart of ancient Greek pottery innovation, these vessels were everyday luxuries used during symposia—lively social gatherings where men reclined, drank wine mixed with water, and engaged in philosophical, poetry, or games. Kylikes were prized for their elegant, wide bowls that allowed easy sipping while revealing intricate decorations beneath. Crafted from fired clay on a potter's wheel, Attic vases like these exemplify masterful t...