Terracotta rhyton (vase for libations or drinking)
Unknown Artist
ca. 350–300 BCE
Medium
Terracotta
Dimensions
H. 6 1/8 in. (15.6 cm)
Classification
Vases
Culture & Period
Greek, South Italian, Apulian · Late Classical
Department
Greek and Roman Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Rogers Fund, 1955
Accession Number
55.11.3
Tags
Art Historical Context
This exquisite terracotta rhyton crafted around 350–300 BCE by an unknown Apulian artist in South Italy, exemplifies the vibrant pottery traditions of Greek colonists in the region during the Late Classical period. Standing just 6 1/8 inches (15.6 cm) tall, this vase-shaped vessel was designed for pouring libations to the gods or sipping wine at symposia—lively social gatherings central to ancient Greek life. Apulian pottery, known for its bold red-figure technique, often featured elaborate narratives drawn from mythology, theater, and daily rituals, blending Eastern influences with local flai...