Terracotta fragment of a kylix (drinking cup)

Art Historical Context

This terracotta fragment of a kylix, or drinking cup, was created by the Colmar Painter in Athens around 490–480 BCE. Produced during the Late Archaic period, it belongs to the vibrant tradition of Attic vase painting preserved in the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Greek and Roman Art collection. The kylix form was central to Greek social life, especially the symposium, where participants shared wine and conversation from elegantly shaped vessels. Terracotta provided an ideal medium for such works—affordable, workable, and capable of capturing fine details through painted decoration. As a fragment, this piece underscores how even partial survivals contribute to our understanding of ancient craftsmanship and daily rituals. The Colmar Painter’s activity reflects the artistic experimentation of his time, bridging earlier Archaic styles with emerging classical ideals. Generously gifted by curator Dietrich von Bothmer, the fragment invites visitors to appreciate the skill and cultural significance embedded in Greek pottery, connecting us directly to the world of fifth-century BCE Athens.