Fragment of a terracotta kylix 475 BC

This is a fragment of a terracotta kylix, a drinking cup, created by an anonymous artist. The cup was shaped from clay, and the surface then carefully painted with figures in black slip—a mixture of fine clay and water that vitrifies to a glossy black during firing. Notice how the painted figure and the ground reverse, creating striking silhouettes, but the details are scratched into the black surface revealing the red clay beneath. This requires a steady hand and meticulous attention. The act of creation—shaping the clay, mixing and applying the slip, incising details, and firing the vessel—speaks to a society deeply invested in craft traditions. These cups weren't just functional; they were also a canvas for storytelling and social commentary. Through the painted scenes, we get glimpses into the lives, myths, and values of the people who used them. Ultimately, this fragment reminds us that even the most everyday objects can be imbued with meaning through skillful making. It challenges us to look beyond the surface and appreciate the rich history embedded in the material and the making process.