Terracotta fragment of a column-krater (bowl for mixing wine and water) 530 BC

This terracotta fragment of a column-krater, or wine-mixing bowl, was made in ancient Greece, where the symposium was a vital social ritual. The scene depicted in the fragment is an example of black-figure pottery that became popular in the 7th century BCE. The figures are painted in black silhouette against the red clay. The artist incised details to define the figures and add visual interest, such as the man’s beard and the folds of fabric. Wine was an important part of Greek culture, and drinking parties were common among the elite. This fragment gives insight into the culture of ancient Greece and the role of wine in their society. The vessel itself would have served as a centerpiece for social gatherings. Art historians can learn more about this work through close visual analysis, along with study of ancient Greek texts and archaeological finds. The meaning of this art is contingent on its social and institutional context.