Terracotta fragments of a kylix (drinking cup) 530 BC

These terracotta fragments of a kylix, or drinking cup, were created by Makron. Imagine holding this kylix, feeling its weight and the smoothness of its surface, connecting you to a world where gender and social roles were performed on grand stages and in intimate settings. This cup, likely used in symposia—exclusive gatherings of men—becomes a window into the rituals and power dynamics of ancient Greek society. The painted scenes would have animated discussions about politics, philosophy, and pleasure, reinforcing a sense of shared identity and cultural values among the participants. The fragments hint at the narratives that once adorned the complete vessel, possibly depicting mythological stories or scenes from daily life. Each figure and decorative motif would have contributed to the cup's meaning, influencing how its users saw themselves and their place in the world. Consider how this object, now broken, still speaks volumes about a culture's aspirations, its exclusions, and the stories it chose to tell.