Terracotta Loutrophoros (ceremonial Vase for Water) 330 BC

This is a terracotta loutrophoros, a ceremonial vase for water, created by an Ancient Greek pottery maker. Used in ancient Greek rituals, the loutrophoros literally translates to “bath-bringer”, and was employed during wedding ceremonies, where water was carried to ritually bathe the bride and groom, signifying purification and fertility. It was also used as a grave marker for unmarried women, symbolizing a marriage denied in life. The vase's painted scenes offer glimpses into the gendered roles and expectations of ancient Greek society. The images on the vase typically depict scenes of domestic life and courtship, underscoring the significance of marriage as a social and cultural construct. While the loutrophoros embodies celebration and hope, it also encapsulates the complex interplay between identity, societal norms, and individual destinies in the ancient world.