Kyathos

Kyathos Dionysos Louvre CA3309

Kyathos (plural: kyathoi) is a type of ancient Greek pottery characterized by its deep bowl and single, high-swung handle. The kyathos was primarily used as a ladle for serving wine from a larger vessel, such as a krater, into individual drinking cups, like the kylix or kantharos.

Description

The kyathos typically features a deep, rounded bowl with a single, vertical handle that extends above the rim. This handle often has a loop or thumb rest at the top, making it easier to hold and pour. The shape of the kyathos is distinct from other Greek pottery forms due to its unique handle and deep bowl, which differentiates it from the shallower phiale or the two-handled skyphos.

Historical Context

Kyathoi were commonly used during the Archaic period and the Classical period of ancient Greece, roughly from the 7th to the 4th centuries BCE. They were often made of terracotta and decorated with black-figure or red-figure techniques, which were popular styles of pottery decoration during these periods. The scenes depicted on kyathoi could range from mythological narratives to everyday activities, providing valuable insights into ancient Greek culture and society.

Function and Use

The primary function of the kyathos was to serve as a ladle for transferring wine from a communal vessel to individual drinking cups during symposia, which were social gatherings for drinking and intellectual conversation. The kyathos's design made it well-suited for this purpose, as the deep bowl could hold a significant amount of liquid, and the high handle allowed for easy pouring without spillage.

Significance in Greek Pottery

Kyathoi are significant in the study of Greek pottery because they illustrate the practical and artistic aspects of ancient Greek life. The craftsmanship and decorative elements of kyathoi reflect the skills of ancient Greek potters and painters, while their use in social rituals highlights the importance of communal drinking practices in Greek culture.

Notable Examples

Several notable examples of kyathoi have been discovered in archaeological sites across Greece and other regions influenced by Greek culture. These artifacts are often displayed in museums and provide valuable information about the techniques and styles used by ancient Greek artisans.

See Also

• Greek pottery
• Krater
• Kylix
• Kantharos
• Phiale
• Skyphos
• Symposium