Terracotta rim fragment of a kylix (drinking cup) 530 BC

This is a fragment of a terracotta kylix, or drinking cup, made by Makron, an Athenian vase painter active in the first half of the 5th century BC. Imagine holding this cup, its smooth terracotta cool against your skin, picturing the symposium where it was used. These gatherings, exclusively for male citizens, were spaces for philosophical discussion, political maneuvering, and the celebration of male camaraderie. The imagery on the kylix, often depicting scenes of daily life, mythology, or even explicit erotic encounters, served as conversation starters, reinforcing the bonds and hierarchies of Athenian society. This fragment offers us a glimpse into that world, a world where the voices and experiences of women and enslaved people were deliberately excluded. While appreciating the artistry of Makron, it's crucial to consider the broader social context that shaped its creation and use. The beauty of this cup is thus intertwined with the complexities and inequalities of Athenian society.