Lot 29
Greek, Hellenistic Period, 4th to 3rd century BCE. This vessel is truly a work of art, with a perfectly round, deep bowl that stands on a small foot, and twin, delicate handles projecting from the lower body. Each handle consists of two narrow strands of bronze that curve upward and meet in pointed terminals perfect for hooking your thumb under. The kylix was for drinking wine; this example may have been made solely to be placed as an offering in a tomb. Size: 7.25" L x 3.25" W x 2.2" H (18.4 cm x 8.3 cm x 5.6 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, caught in the act of playing ancient Greek beer pong.
Two very similar pieces are in the Metropolitan Museum of Art (07.286.97; 07.286.130).
Provenance: private East Coast, USA collection
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#120584
- Condition: Handles and foot have been reattached. Nice dark patina over surface.
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