Terracotta rim fragment 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
2011.604.1.7152
Art Historical Context
This delicate terracotta rim fragment from kylix, or shallow drinking cup, dates to 500–480 BCE and comes from the skilled hands of Makron, one of the most prolific Attic red-figure vase of late Archaic Greece. Makron, active in Athens during a pivotal transition from the Archaic to Classical periods, specialized in elegant scenes of daily life, mythology, and symposialively banquets where such kylikes played a starring role. Though only a fragment survives, it hints at the refined craftsmanship of Attic pottery workshops, where terracotta vessels were fired, then decorated with glossy black s...
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...