Terracotta fragment of a kylix (drinking cup) 530 BC

This fragment of a terracotta kylix, or drinking cup, now residing at the Met, was crafted by Pheidippos. Though small, it offers a glimpse into the social and cultural life of ancient Greece. Kylixes were not merely functional objects; they were integral to symposia, gatherings of men for drinking, conversation, and philosophical discussions. The imagery adorning these cups often depicted scenes from mythology, daily life, or athletic competitions, reflecting the values and narratives of the time. Here, we see the head of a horse, possibly evoking themes of power, status, and the aristocratic pursuits of horsemanship and chariot racing. Consider the act of drinking from such a vessel: as the symposium unfolded, and the wine flowed, the image would gradually reveal itself, sparking conversation and contemplation. This fragment serves as a reminder of the intimate relationship between art, ritual, and identity in ancient Greek society, inviting us to ponder the stories these objects once told, and the lives they touched.