Terracotta kantharos (drinking cup with two vertical handles): heads of a satyr and a woman 420 BC

This is a terracotta kantharos, or drinking cup, with two vertical handles attributed to the artist Aison. The cup is decorated with the heads of a satyr and a woman. In ancient Greece, pottery was more than functional; it was a canvas for cultural expression. The scenes painted here offer us a glimpse into the complex societal roles and relationships of the time. The satyr, often associated with Dionysian revelry, stands in contrast to the idealized woman. This contrast reflects prevailing notions about gender and behavior. The imagery invites consideration of how these figures embody ancient Greek values around moderation, desire, and social order. Consider how the act of drinking from such a vessel might have connected individuals to these cultural narratives, reinforcing or perhaps challenging their understanding of self and society.