Kantharos

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Greek - Red-Figure Kantharos (Drinking Vessel) with Female Head - Walters 482763 - View A

Kantharos

A kantharos (plural: kantharoi) is a type of ancient Greek pottery used for drinking. It is characterized by its high handles that extend above the lip of the cup and its deep bowl. The kantharos is often associated with Dionysus, the Greek god of wine, fertility, and ritual madness.

Description

Kantharoi typically feature a deep bowl, a tall stem, and two high-swung handles that rise above the rim of the cup. The shape of the kantharos is designed to be held easily, making it suitable for drinking wine. The high handles also allowed the vessel to be hung up when not in use.

Historical Context

The kantharos was primarily used during the Classical period of ancient Greece, roughly from the 5th to the 4th century BCE. It was a common vessel in symposia, which were social gatherings for drinking and intellectual conversation. The kantharos is often depicted in Greek vase painting and is frequently associated with scenes involving Dionysus and his followers, the satyrs and maenads.

Cultural Significance

In addition to its practical use, the kantharos held significant symbolic meaning. It was closely linked to Dionysian rituals and the cult of Dionysus. The shape and design of the kantharos were believed to embody the essence of the god, symbolizing the joy and ecstasy associated with wine and revelry.

Materials and Techniques

Kantharoi were typically made from terracotta and were often decorated with black-figure or red-figure techniques. These decorative styles involved painting figures and scenes onto the pottery before firing it in a kiln. The intricate designs often depicted mythological scenes, daily life, and Dionysian imagery.

Notable Examples

Several notable examples of kantharoi have been discovered in archaeological sites across Greece and the wider ancient world. These artifacts provide valuable insights into the social and cultural practices of ancient Greek society. Some of the most famous kantharoi are housed in museums such as the National Archaeological Museum of Athens and the British Museum.

See Also

• Kylix
• Oinochoe
• Krater
• Amphora
• Dionysus
• Ancient Greek pottery