Terracotta pyxis (box) 590 BC

This terracotta pyxis, or box, was crafted by an anonymous artist in ancient Greece. Vessels like these, found in both domestic and funerary contexts, offer a window into the daily lives and belief systems of ancient Greek society. The painted decorations may offer insights into the cultural perceptions and values of the time. Swans appear on either side of the vessel, likely carrying symbolic meanings related to beauty, love, or even the passage of the soul. The geometric designs, while decorative, also reflect the artistic conventions of the period. Given the absence of a known artist, this piece raises questions about artistic identity and the role of artisans in ancient Greece. Consider the hands that shaped this pyxis, the community that used it, and the stories it might have held. How does this object connect us to the past, and what can it tell us about the human experience across time?