Terracotta fragment of a kylix: eye-cup (drinking cup) 530 BC

This fragment of a terracotta kylix (drinking cup) from 530 BCE was created by the Athenian potter Oltos. The fragment, now housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, showcases the distinctive black-figure style of Athenian pottery of the Archaic period. The fragment features intricate black-painted bands and white slip, indicating the artist's meticulous attention to detail. This style of pottery played a vital role in ancient Greek society, not only for its functionality but also as a form of art that reflected cultural values and aesthetics.