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
2011.604.1.7255
Art Historical Context
This delicate terracotta rim fragment from kylix, or shallow drinking cup, offers a glimpse into the refined world of ancient Athens around 500–480 BCE. Crafted by the renowned Attic vase-painter Makron during the late Archaic period it hails from the vibrant tradition of Greek pottery. Kylixes like this one were essential at symposia—lively social gatherings where elite men reclined, drank wine, and debated philosophy or recited poetry. The fragment's survival speaks to the enduring craftsmanship of Attic workshops, where terracotta was fired and often decorated to capture everyday elegance a...
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...