Stamnos

Stamnos tripod Louvre G180

Stamnos is a type of ancient Greek pottery used primarily for the storage and serving of liquids, particularly wine. The stamnos is characterized by its broad body, short neck, and two horizontal handles attached to the sides of the vessel. It is similar in function to the amphora but differs in shape and design.

Description

The stamnos typically features a wide, rounded body that allows for a substantial volume of liquid to be stored. The short neck and wide mouth make it easy to pour liquids, while the horizontal handles provide a secure grip for lifting and carrying. The base of the stamnos is usually flat, allowing it to stand upright on a surface.

Historical Context

Stamnoi were commonly used during the Classical period of ancient Greece, roughly from the 5th to the 4th centuries BCE. They were often decorated with intricate red-figure or black-figure designs, depicting scenes from Greek mythology, daily life, or athletic competitions. These decorations not only served an aesthetic purpose but also provided insight into the cultural and social practices of the time.

Function and Use

The primary function of the stamnos was to store and serve wine, which was a central element of ancient Greek symposia—social gatherings where participants engaged in drinking, conversation, and entertainment. The wide mouth of the stamnos made it easy to mix wine with water, a common practice in ancient Greece to dilute the strong beverage.

Manufacture and Materials

Stamnoi were typically made from terracotta, a type of clay that was readily available in ancient Greece. The pottery was shaped on a wheel, then fired in a kiln to harden the clay. After the initial firing, the vessel was often painted with slip (a liquid mixture of clay and water) to create the desired decorative patterns. A final firing would fix the designs onto the surface of the pottery.

Notable Examples

Several notable examples of stamnoi have been discovered in archaeological sites across Greece and other regions influenced by Greek culture. These artifacts are often displayed in museums, where they provide valuable insights into ancient Greek art and daily life.

See Also

• Amphora
• Krater
• Kylix
• Oinochoe
• Ancient Greek pottery