Lèbes gamikòs

Women bath Asteas Lebes gamikos MAN Inv11445 n1

Lèbes gamikòs (plural: lebetes gamikoi) is an ancient Greek pottery vessel, typically associated with wedding rituals. The term "lebes gamikos" translates to "marriage bowl" in English, reflecting its primary use in nuptial ceremonies.

Description

The lebes gamikos is characterized by its deep, bowl-like body, which often rests on a high, narrow foot. It typically features two vertical handles on either side of the vessel, which are used for carrying. The vessel is usually made of terracotta and is often decorated with intricate black-figure or red-figure designs, depicting scenes related to marriage, domestic life, and mythology.

Function

In ancient Greek culture, the lebes gamikos played a significant role in wedding ceremonies. It was used to hold water for the bridal bath, a ritual purification process for the bride before the wedding. The vessel was also used to store and mix wine, which was an essential part of the wedding feast. The lebes gamikos symbolized fertility and the union of the bride and groom.

Historical Context

The use of the lebes gamikos dates back to the Archaic period and continued through the Classical period of ancient Greece. These vessels have been found in various archaeological sites, including Athens, Corinth, and other prominent Greek city-states. The artistic depictions on the lebes gamikos provide valuable insights into ancient Greek wedding customs and social practices.

Notable Examples

Several notable examples of lebetes gamikoi are housed in major museums around the world, including the British Museum, the Louvre, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. These artifacts are studied for their artistic merit and their contribution to our understanding of ancient Greek culture.

See Also

• Ancient Greek pottery
• Black-figure pottery
• Red-figure pottery
• Wedding customs in ancient Greece
• Terracotta