Terracotta Kylix, Eye Cup (drinking Cup) 530 BC

This terracotta drinking cup, or kylix, was crafted by an Ancient Greek potter, though the exact date and artist are unknown. The painted scene is a window into the cultural values of ancient Greece. Around the cup, we see an image of a woman, perhaps a princess, watching the capture of a Minotaur. The figures and the narrative come to life, reflecting the importance of mythology and storytelling in ancient Greek society. The eyes painted on the cup may have served a ritual purpose, perhaps to ward off evil spirits or protect the drinker. The kylix is a testament to the skill of ancient Greek potters and painters, who were able to create objects of both beauty and utility. Examining such works involves considering the visual culture of its time. By consulting archaeological reports, literary sources, and museum archives, we can explore the rich social and institutional context surrounding this piece. We find that even a drinking cup can be an artifact of social history.