Terracotta fragment of a kylix (drinking cup) 450 BC

This terracotta fragment of a kylix, or drinking cup, was created by the Group of Louvre C 11000. In ancient Greece, pottery was more than functional; it was a canvas reflecting cultural values and narratives. The red-figure technique seen here, with figures rendered in the natural red of the clay against a black background, allowed for intricate detailing. The image creates meaning through visual codes: the draped figures, likely Athenian citizens, suggest status. Drinking cups like this one were not only for wine consumption but also for social gatherings. This one could have been used at symposia, where aristocratic men engaged in philosophical discussions and cemented social bonds. Historical accounts and archaeological findings would provide additional insights into workshop practices, trade routes, and the consumption habits of Athenian society, revealing how this fragment connects to a larger network of cultural production.