Attic red figure column-krater

In ancient times, ceramic kraters were exported throughout the Mediterranean region from Athens, which dominated Greek pottery production and design creativity in the sixth and fifth centuries BCE. These vessels were used for mixing wine with water, as drinking undiluted wine was considered uncouth. Despite variations in their form, their decorations typically showed activities associated with wine, such as a symposium (men’s drinking party) or komos (ritual procession of revellers).

Virtually intact, this column krater superbly exemplifies a once-common vessel from Athens or its surrounding region, Attica. Depicted on one side is a komos, in which a flautist and a twirling dancer are accompanied by two revellers, one of whom carries a wine cup. Its reverse side shows three youths. The vessel – created in the decades when the Parthenon itself was built – and its images evoke the spirit of confidence and contentment prevalent during Athens’ golden age of political, economic and artistic supremacy.

Barry Patton, Tarnanthi Writer & Researcher