bolsal (Cup)

Cups with this shape were primarily utilitarian but could also serve as grave goods. Small size of this particular object suggests that it may not have been intended for regular use, but was in fact votive. It was common practice to create miniature examples of pottery forms to be in votive deposits.

This collection was said to have been acquired by James George during his service in Greece (Athens) from 1945-48. J.W. Hayes suggested this cup may be of Bolatian or Attic origin.

utilitarian; funerary; votive

Small, red, clay cup with deep bowl and vertical sides. Base separated from body by narrow scotia. Two ring handles, circular in section rise from body horizontally at rim. Surface of cup painted with a thick black paint. Underside of base reserved with a black ring.