Terracotta fragments of a kylix (drinking cup) 530 BC

This is a fragment of a black-figure kylix, a type of drinking cup used in Ancient Greece, dating to 530 BC. The artwork was created by Makron, a prominent Athenian potter. It is currently housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. The fragmented kylix depicts a figure playing the aulos (double reed pipe), likely a scene from a symposium, a social gathering where men would drink, discuss philosophy, and enjoy the company of one another. This example demonstrates the use of black-figure pottery, where figures were painted onto a clay background with a black glaze. The geometric designs and intricate details showcase the skill of the artist. This artifact provides valuable insight into the cultural practices and artistic expressions of ancient Greece.