Greek Corinthian Terracotta Skyphos

£ 195.00

A decorated terracotta, Corinthian skyphos (wine cup) featuring a large slightly tapering bowl, which rests on a ring foot. Two horizontal handles sit on either side of the vessel. The piece is decorated with numerous horizontal bands of different thickness. A frieze of geometric motifs are visible across the top of the cup and signs of pigment can be seen on the interior. All the decorations are slightly faded due to age.

Date: Circa 6th Century BC
Provenance: Ex K. Furness collection, acquired by descent from her mother. Circa 1950s onwards.
Condition: Very fine condition, wear due to age, very minor chips to rim and base.

SOLD

SKU: LD-639 Category: Tags: ,

Skyphoi were drinking cups (usually for wine) that took the form of deep bowls with two handles, usually with a low base. They were pioneered in Corinth. The skyphos was a popular shape, designed to fit easily in the drinkers’ hand, which remained in use into the Roman period and was frequently used at banquets and symposia. The men of ancient Greece regularly got together in private homes to exchange ideas, conversing about different topics and socializing over a drink. As the evening progressed, participants engaged in other pleasures, including games and performances. Wine played a major role in fuelling these evenings, and a myriad of vessels were used for preparing wine while smaller vessels like this one were used to serve and drink it.

To find out more about the different types of Greek vessels please visit our relevant blog post: Types of Ancient Greek Vases.

Weight 70.9 g
Dimensions W 12.2 x H 5.2 cm
Culture

Pottery and Porcelain

Region

Reference: For a similar item,The British Museum, item 1863,0728.71

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