Gordion cup

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Gordion cup

Gordion cup

The Gordion cup is a type of ancient Greek pottery that dates back to the Archaic period of Greek history. Named after the ancient city of Gordion, located in modern-day Turkey, these cups are notable for their distinctive shape and decorative elements.

Description

Gordion cups are characterized by their deep, rounded bowls and high, flaring rims. They typically feature two horizontal handles attached just below the rim. The cups are often decorated with geometric patterns, floral motifs, and sometimes figural scenes. The decoration is usually executed in the black-figure technique, a style of pottery painting that was prevalent during the Archaic period.

Historical Context

The city of Gordion was the capital of Phrygia, an ancient kingdom in central Anatolia. The Gordion cup is believed to have been produced during the 7th and 6th centuries BCE, a time when the city was a significant cultural and political center. The cups are often found in archaeological sites in and around Gordion, indicating their local production and use.

Function and Use

Gordion cups were primarily used for drinking, likely for consuming wine during symposia, which were social gatherings for drinking and intellectual conversation. The shape and size of the cups made them suitable for holding a moderate amount of liquid, and the handles allowed for easy handling.

Significance

The Gordion cup is an important artifact for understanding the cultural and artistic practices of ancient Phrygia. The decorative elements on the cups provide insights into the aesthetic preferences and symbolic motifs of the time. Additionally, the presence of these cups in various archaeological contexts helps scholars trace the trade and cultural interactions between Gordion and other ancient civilizations.

Related Artifacts

Other notable types of ancient Greek pottery include the amphora, krater, and kylix. Each of these vessel types had specific functions and decorative styles, contributing to our understanding of ancient Greek daily life and artistic expression.

See Also

• Ancient Greek pottery
• Black-figure pottery
• Phrygia
• Symposium (ancient Greece)
• Archaic Greece