ITEM: Skyhpos
MATERIAL: Pottery
CULTURE: Greek
PERIOD: 4th Century B.C
DIMENSIONS: 42 mm x 148 mm x 78 mm
CONDITION: Good condition.
PROVENANCE: Ex Swiss private collection, since at least 1978

Comes with Certificate of Authenticity and Export Licence. If you are from outside the European Union, we will have to apply for the export licence again for your country, this takes 3 to 5 weeks and has a cost of 5% of the hammer price, this amount will be added to the final invoice.

The Greek skyphos is a type of ancient Greek drinking vessel characterized by its deep, bowl-shaped body, two horizontal handles, and often a stemmed foot. It was commonly used for serving wine during symposiums, which were social gatherings where Greek men would come together to discuss various topics, drink wine, and enjoy entertainment. The design of the skyphos evolved over time, with earlier examples featuring a more conical shape and later versions becoming broader and more shallow.

Skyphoi were crafted from a variety of materials, including pottery, bronze, and silver, with pottery being the most common. They were often decorated with intricate designs, including scenes from Greek mythology, daily life, and ornate patterns. These decorations not only added aesthetic appeal but also served as conversation starters during symposiums, where guests would admire and discuss the craftsmanship of the vessel.

The use of the skyphos in Greek society was not just about drinking wine but also about fostering social bonds and intellectual discourse. Symposiums were integral to Greek culture, providing a platform for philosophical debates, poetry recitations, and the exchange of ideas among intellectuals.