Psykter

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Psykter warrior Louvre F319

Psykter

A psykter is an ancient Greek vessel used primarily for cooling wine. The term "psykter" is derived from the Greek word "ψύχω" (psycho), meaning "to cool." These vessels were commonly used during the Classical period of ancient Greece, particularly in the 5th century BCE.

Design and Function

The psykter is characterized by its distinctive shape, which includes a bulbous body, a narrow neck, and a flared mouth. The design of the psykter allowed it to be placed inside a larger vessel, such as a krater, which was filled with cold water or ice. The wine would be poured into the psykter, and the cold water surrounding it would cool the wine without diluting it.

Usage

Psykters were typically used during symposia, which were social gatherings for drinking, music, and intellectual conversation among the ancient Greeks. The use of a psykter ensured that the wine remained at an optimal temperature throughout the event.

Decoration

Many psykters were elaborately decorated with scenes from Greek mythology, daily life, or athletic competitions. These decorations were often created using the red-figure pottery technique, which allowed for greater detail and realism compared to the earlier black-figure pottery style.

Archaeological Findings

Numerous psykters have been discovered in archaeological sites across Greece and other regions influenced by Greek culture. These findings provide valuable insights into the social and cultural practices of ancient Greece, particularly in relation to their drinking customs.

Related Vessels

Other vessels related to the psykter include the amphora, used for storing and transporting wine, and the kylix, a type of drinking cup. The krater, often used in conjunction with the psykter, was a large bowl used for mixing wine with water.

See Also

• Symposium
• Krater
• Red-figure pottery
• Greek mythology
• Classical period