Terracotta fragment of a kylix (drinking cup) 530 BC

This terracotta fragment of a kylix, or drinking cup, was crafted by Makron, an ancient Greek potter and painter. The vessel was formed from clay, shaped on a potter's wheel with precision and skill. The cup's surface, once complete, would have been adorned with intricate imagery. This fragment shows a small portion, decorated in the red-figure technique, a style that flourished in Athens. Notice how the figures are rendered in the natural red color of the clay, while the background is painted black. The painting process involved the application of a fine clay slip, which turned black during firing in a kiln. Consider the labor involved in extracting, processing, and firing the clay. Drinking cups like this one played a role in social rituals, and they offer a glimpse into the values and aesthetics of ancient Greek culture. This fragment challenges our traditional distinctions between art and craft, inviting us to appreciate the artistry embedded in everyday objects.