Terracotta ring-kernos (offering vase)

ca. 850–750 BCE
Not on view
The kernos is a vase for offerings that consists of several small receptacles generally arranged in a circle. Well documented in the Greek world during the Bronze Age (ca. 3000–1200 B.C.), this example represents a late survival. The ring supports five vases of different shapes and a lyre-playing man. The figure suggests that the kernos was used in a banquet.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Terracotta ring-kernos (offering vase)
  • Period: Cypro-Geometric III
  • Date: ca. 850–750 BCE
  • Culture: Cypriot
  • Medium: Terracotta
  • Dimensions: H. 4 1/2 in. (11.4 cm)
    diameter 6 3/4 in. (17.1 cm)
  • Classification: Vases
  • Credit Line: The Cesnola Collection, Purchased by subscription, 1874–76
  • Object Number: 74.51.660
  • Curatorial Department: Greek and Roman Art

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