kylix (Cup)
About this object
History of use
The kylix was a two handled cup with shallow bowl and generally with a high foot used for drinking wine. These cups were produced for general use but also served a funerary function as grave goods.
Narrative
This collection was said to have been acquired by James George during his service in Greece (Athens) from 1945-48.
Cultural context
utilitarian; funerary
Iconographic meaning
The word kavos or kalos inscribed on the foot was a common graffito meaning "he/it is beautiful." The term usually followed a person's name giving praise to some figure of the day, but it was not uncommon to use the term "kalos'' on its own.
Physical description
Clay cup consisting of a wide, shallow bowl, lip area separated from bowl with fillet, tall cylindrical stem connects bowl and foot with gentle curves. Foot consists of a heavy disk with slightly oblique edges. Two ring handles, round in section, spring from bowl just below fillet, almost horizontally but with slight upward curve upswept at their ends. Decoration consists of black paint applied to most of surface with areas left in reserve. Handles painted only on outside edges and reserve areas left between their junctions with body. Reserve band on side of foot.
Date Made
C. 550 B.C.E.
Date Acquired
28 Nov 1985
How Acquired
Donated
Credit Line
Measurements
Overall: 7.1 cm x 18.9 cm x 13.2 cm x 13.2 cm
Object Number
Ce230