Terracotta skyphos (deep drinking cup) 420 BC

This 5th century BC skyphos, or deep drinking cup, is a fine example of the Attic black-figure style. The cup, decorated with red figures on a black background, depicts three figures, likely representing a scene from Greek mythology. It was created by the Athenian potter Polion, and is currently housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The distinct black-figure technique, characterized by black silhouettes with details added in white or red, was a prominent artistic style in ancient Greece during the 6th and early 5th centuries BC. This specific skyphos showcases the skill and artistry of the period, offering viewers insight into the artistic and cultural practices of ancient Greece.