Terracotta kylix (drinking cup) 500 BC

This terracotta kylix, or drinking cup, was crafted by the Thorvaldsen Group. The black-figure technique, with its painted silhouettes and incised details, showcases the artist's mastery of clay as a medium. The deep black glaze, achieved through a complex firing process, contrasts strikingly with the reddish-orange of the clay. Notice how the figures emerge from the cup's surface, their forms defined by sharp lines and careful shading. Creating such a vessel demanded precision. From shaping the clay on a potter's wheel to applying the intricate decoration, each step required a craftsman's skill. The cup’s form and imagery reflect its function, a social piece that evokes the traditions and narratives valued in its time. By understanding the material and the making, we gain a deeper appreciation of this object, dissolving the boundaries between art, craft, and daily life.