Terracotta fragment of a kylix (drinking cup) 530 BC

This terracotta fragment of a kylix, or drinking cup, was crafted by Makron, an Athenian vase painter known for his red-figure pottery. Looking at the fragment, a hand delicately reaches towards a figure adorned with a wreath. In ancient Greece, drinking vessels were central to social gatherings, particularly symposia, where elite men engaged in philosophical discussions, revelry, and the performance of their identities. Makron’s work gives us insight into the cultural values and social dynamics of ancient Athenian society. The imagery on the kylix often depicted scenes from mythology, everyday life, or erotic encounters. By creating these images, artists like Makron reinforced societal norms, expectations, and the complex interplay between public and private life. Though a fragment, it offers us a glimpse into the stories, identities, and histories embedded in these ancient objects.