Fragment of a terracotta kylix (drinking cup) 475 BC

This fragment of a terracotta drinking cup, known as a kylix, was crafted by Douris, an Athenian vase painter, during a period of immense cultural production. This shard offers a window into the performative aspects of ancient Greek society, where symposia—exclusive drinking parties for aristocratic men—were central. The image of a bearded man, possibly a participant in such a gathering, raises questions about identity, class, and gender dynamics. Who was he, and what role did he play in these rituals? The act of drinking was itself a carefully choreographed performance of masculinity and social status. The red-figure technique, with its emphasis on detail, allowed artists like Douris to explore nuances of expression and gesture. In what ways did such depictions reinforce or challenge the established norms of male identity? This fragment invites us to consider the complex interplay between art, ritual, and identity in ancient Greece.