Kylix depicting athletic combats by Onesimos

Bottom of Kylix

Kylix depicting athletic combats by Onesimos

A kylix is a type of ancient Greek drinking cup with a broad, relatively shallow body raised on a stem from a foot and usually with two horizontal handles disposed symmetrically. The kylix depicting athletic combats by Onesimos is a notable example of ancient Greek pottery, showcasing the artistic and cultural significance of athletic competitions in ancient Greece.

Description

The kylix in question is attributed to the painter Onesimos, an ancient Greek vase painter active during the late Archaic period and early Classical period of Greek art, around 500-480 BCE. Onesimos is known for his detailed and dynamic depictions of human figures, particularly in athletic contexts.

The kylix features a series of scenes illustrating various athletic combats, including wrestling, boxing, and pankration. These sports were integral parts of the ancient Greek Olympic Games and other Panhellenic Games. The interior of the kylix, known as the tondo, typically showcases a central scene, while the exterior often depicts a continuous frieze of athletes in action.

Artistic Significance

Onesimos is celebrated for his ability to capture movement and the human form with remarkable precision and expressiveness. His work on this kylix exemplifies the transition from the more rigid and stylized figures of the Archaic period to the more naturalistic and dynamic representations characteristic of the Classical period.

The kylix not only serves as a functional object but also as a piece of art that provides insight into the values and practices of ancient Greek society. The emphasis on athletic prowess and competition reflects the importance of physical fitness and excellence, which were highly esteemed in Greek culture.

Historical Context

Athletic competitions were a central aspect of ancient Greek life, with events held in honor of the gods, particularly Zeus and Apollo. The depiction of these events on pottery like the kylix by Onesimos highlights the cultural and religious significance of athletics in ancient Greece.

The kylix would have been used in social settings such as symposia, where elite Greek men gathered to drink, discuss, and enjoy entertainment. The scenes on the kylix would have served as conversation pieces, reflecting the interests and values of the symposium participants.

Preservation and Legacy

Many kylikes, including those by Onesimos, have been preserved in museums and collections around the world. They continue to be studied for their artistic techniques, historical context, and cultural significance. The kylix depicting athletic combats by Onesimos remains a valuable artifact for understanding ancient Greek art and society.

See also

• Ancient Greek pottery
• Red-figure pottery
• Symposium
• Panhellenic Games
• Olympic Games
• Pankration
• Wrestling
• Boxing