Terracotta chous

late 5th century BCE

Not on view

Toward the end of the 5th century B.C., Athenian potters and painters created a large number of miniature vessels decorated with scenes involving young children. They are connected with the Anthesteria, a three-day celebration of the new vintage of wine and the arrival of spring, in which children also participated. These little vessels are called choes (sing. chous), which means libations, after the name of the second day of the festival. It is noteworthy that the scene on this example depicts a chous and a kline, suggesting a symposium.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

References

Title: Terracotta chous
Period: Classical
Date: late 5th century BCE
Culture: Greek, Attic
Medium: Terracotta; red-figure
Dimensions: H. 6 cm x W. 5.3 cm
Classification: Vases
Credit Line: Bequest of Nanette B. Kelekian, 2020
Object Number: 2021.40.21
Curatorial Department: Greek and Roman Art

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