Images(2)

Volute Krater (Wine Mixing Vessel)

Maker Unknown Maker (Apulian)

Dateca. 340-320 B.C.E

Creation LocationApulia

MediumCeramic

Dimensions23 x 13 1/2 x 11 1/8 in. (58.4 x 34.3 x 28.3 cm)

ClassificationsDecorative Arts

Credit LineGift of the Director's Council

Object number94.2

Commentary

web interpretive text

The ancient Greeks and neighboring cultures used kraters to mix highly alcoholic wne with water before serving. Placed prominently in the center of the room, these vessels often featured detailed scenes of daily life. The Greek playwright Eubulus (active 360 B.C.E.) noted that usually only three kraters were served at an event: "the first for health, the second for love and pleasure, the third for sleep. After the third one is drained, wise men go home."

ProvenanceAndre Emmerich Gallery, Inc., New York, New York, 1994

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