Greek, Hellenistic Period, 4th to 3rd century BCE. This vessel is truly a work of art, with an elegant, rounded, deep bowl, phalange beneath the rim, that stands on a small concave foot, and twin, delicate upturned handles projecting from the lower body. The kylix was for drinking wine; this example may have been made solely to be placed as an offering in a tomb. Size: 6" W handlespan x 2.75" H (15.2 cm x 7 cm)

Cups like these were made in variety of materials - bronze, like this one, terracotta, silver, and even gold! They were a vital component of the symposium, the formal drinking party frequently enjoyed by elite Greek men. The kylix played a crucial role in the drinking game of kottabos, where players attempted to throw the portion of wine - usually the dregs - left in their kylikes to knock a bronze disc into a larger one. Many frescoes and ceramic paintings show men reclining, kylikes raised above their heads.

Provenance: private East Coast, USA collection

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#138437

Intact and generally excellent. Gorgeous green patina!