Terracotta skyphos (deep drinking cup) 325 BC

This terracotta skyphos, or deep drinking cup, from the Tondo Group is a fine example of 4th century BC Athenian pottery. The cup, decorated with a black glaze and a contrasting yellow paint, features a design of stylized birds and flowers, reminiscent of the elaborate designs found in Ancient Greek art. The skyphos, a common vessel in Ancient Greece, was used for drinking wine at symposia, or drinking parties, and demonstrates the decorative skills of the Athenian potters of this period.