Skyphos

Skyphos Boscoreale Louvre Bj2367

Skyphos (plural: skyphoi) is a type of ancient Greek pottery characterized by its deep bowl shape and horizontal handles. It was commonly used for drinking wine and other beverages during the Classical period of ancient Greece.

Description

The skyphos typically features a deep, rounded body with two horizontal handles positioned near the rim. The shape of the skyphos allows for easy handling and drinking. The vessel often rests on a small, flat base, although some variations may have a slightly concave or convex base.

Historical Context

Skyphoi were widely used in ancient Greece from the Geometric period through the Hellenistic period. They were particularly popular during the Archaic period and the Classical period. These vessels were often decorated with intricate designs, including black-figure and red-figure techniques, depicting scenes from Greek mythology, daily life, and athletic competitions.

Function and Use

The primary function of the skyphos was as a drinking vessel. It was commonly used in symposia, which were social gatherings where participants would drink wine, engage in conversation, and enjoy entertainment. The skyphos was also used in religious rituals and offerings.

Variations

There are several variations of the skyphos, including the kantharos, which has high vertical handles, and the kylix, which is a shallow drinking cup with a wide mouth and horizontal handles. Each type of vessel had its own specific use and cultural significance.

Notable Examples

Some notable examples of skyphoi can be found in major museums around the world, including the British Museum, the Louvre, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. These artifacts provide valuable insights into the artistic and cultural practices of ancient Greece.

See Also

• Ancient Greek pottery
• Symposium
• Black-figure pottery
• Red-figure pottery
• Kantharos
• Kylix