Terracotta volute-krater (bowl for mixing wine and water) 330 BC

This terracotta volute-krater, a bowl for mixing wine and water, was crafted by the Bolsena Group and is now held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Its visual impact stems from the verticality of its form, accentuated by fluted lines that rise from its base. The volute handles add a dynamic contrast to the overall structure. The krater is divided into distinct registers, each with its own decorative scheme. The lower portion features the vertical fluting. Above this, a band of relief sculpture depicts scenes of classical mythology. The volute handles attach to the rim. This design reveals a semiotic system rooted in classical antiquity. The fluted lines evoke the architectural forms of ancient temples, while the mythological scenes are drawn from a shared cultural vocabulary. The krater, therefore, functions as more than just a vessel. It serves as a potent symbol of classical culture and the aesthetic values associated with it.