Terracotta rim fragment of a skyphos (deep drinking cup)
Unknown Artist
460–440 BCE
Medium
Terracotta
Classification
Vases
Culture & Period
Greek, Attic · 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
2011.604.2.1708
Art Historical Context
This delicate terracotta rim fragment from a skyphos, a deep two-handled drinking cup popular in ancient Greece, dates to the High Classical period (460–440 BCE).ed by an unknown Attic potter in the vibrant hub of Athens, it offers a tangible glimpse into everyday life during the golden age of Periclean Athens—the era of the Parthen and profound democratic ideals. Skyphoi like this were essential for symposia, intimate gatherings where men shared wine, philosophy, and poetry, blending utility with subtle elegance. Though only a fragment survives, its terracotta medium highlights masterful anc...