Terracotta fragment of a kylix (drinking cup) 530 BC

Here we see a fragment of a terracotta kylix, or drinking cup, by Makron. This small shard, now housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, offers a glimpse into the vibrant visual culture of ancient Greece. Cups like this were used in symposia, gatherings for aristocratic men that were spaces for philosophical discussion and revelry. The imagery on these vessels often reflects the values and ideals of the Athenian elite. The fragment’s black-figure technique, with its stylized lines, shows a cultural narrative that often depicted mythological scenes and athletic competitions, reinforcing a patriarchal view of masculine identity. Yet, these vessels also bear witness to the labor of the artisans, like Makron, who crafted them, individuals whose identities and stories are often obscured by history. Consider how this small piece connects us to a distant past, inviting reflection on the stories we tell ourselves about history, power, and the human condition.