greek pots Flashcards
Volute krater by the “Pronomos” painter,
Who is it by? - The “Pronomos” Painter
What year was it created? - Circa 410 BC
What is it? - A volute krater, a large vase used for mixing wine and water. Depicting team of actors celebrating with costumes, masks, aulos player, playwright and Dionysus
Why is it significant?
This krater is significant for its detailed depiction of theatrical life in ancient Greece. It showcases a scene with actors, costumes, masks, an aulos player, a playwright, and the god Dionysus, providing valuable insights into the cultural and social importance of theater in ancient Athens. The krater is an important artifact for understanding the role of drama, performance, and Dionysian worship in Greek society.
Plot Description
The scene depicted on the krater shows a group of actors preparing for or celebrating after a performance. They are surrounded by theatrical paraphernalia, including costumes and masks, and are accompanied by an aulos player (a double-reed instrument). The playwright is also present, indicating the collaborative nature of ancient Greek theater. Dionysus, the god of wine, fertility, and theater, is included in the scene, emphasizing the divine patronage of dramatic arts.
Character Description
Actors: Depicted in various states of preparation and celebration, the actors are shown with their theatrical masks and costumes, indicating their roles in the performance.
Aulos Player: A musician playing the aulos, integral to Greek theater for providing musical accompaniment.
Playwright: The figure of the playwright is present, symbolizing the creative force behind the drama. He is shown interacting with the actors, underscoring his importance in the theatrical production.
Dionysus: The god of wine and theater, depicted with traditional attributes such as the thyrsus (a staff topped with a pine cone) and often a wreath of ivy. His presence highlights the religious and cultural significance of theater as a form of worship and celebration of life.
Prop Description
**The krater itself is the primary prop, used in symposia (drinking parties) where discussions of art, politics, and philosophy often took place. The props within the depicted scene include:
Theatrical Masks: Symbolizing different characters and emotions, essential for Greek drama.
Costumes: Detailed and elaborate, indicating the various roles played by the actors.
Aulos: The double-reed instrument used to provide musical accompaniment for the plays.
Thyrsus: Held by Dionysus, representing his connection to fertility and revelry.**
Costuming
**The figures on the krater are dressed in theatrical costumes:
Actors: Wearing elaborate costumes and masks that represent their characters in the play. These costumes could include robes, tunics, and headpieces, often highly decorated to convey different roles and statuses.
Dionysus: Often depicted in a luxurious and flowing robe, adorned with ivy and carrying the thyrsus, symbolizing his divine nature and his association with theater and revelry.
Playwright and Musicians: Typically shown in more ordinary attire, though still reflecting their significant roles in the cultural life of Athens.**
What do they/don’t they tell us about the classical world?
They tell us about:
Theatrical Culture: The detailed depiction of actors, masks, and costumes highlights the importance of theater in ancient Greek culture, including its religious and social significance.
Religious Practices: The inclusion of Dionysus shows the connection between theater and religious worship, particularly the festivals in honor of Dionysus where plays were performed.
Artistic Collaboration: The presence of the playwright and musicians indicates the collaborative nature of theatrical productions and the value placed on artistic creation and performance.
They don’t tell us about:
Daily Life: While the krater provides insights into the cultural and artistic life of Athens, it does not depict the everyday activities or domestic life of ordinary Greeks.
Political Context: The focus on theater and Dionysian worship does not directly address the political events or figures of the time, although the themes of the plays performed could have political undertones.
Economic Practices: The krater does not provide information about the economic systems or trade practices of ancient Greece.
Bell krater by McDaniel Painter, “Cheiron Vase”
Bell Krater, “Cheiron Vase”
Who is it by? - Attributed to the McDaniel Painter
What year was it created? - Circa 380-370 BC
What is it? - A red-figure bell krater, used for mixing wine and water.
Why is it significant?
The “Cheiron Vase” is significant because it depicts a unique scene involving Cheiron, the wise centaur, which is not commonly portrayed in Greek pottery. The vase is a valuable piece for understanding iconography, mythological themes, and the artistic style of the McDaniel Painter, providing insight into the social and cultural practices of the time.
Plot Description
The scene on the vase shows Cheiron being carried to the cave of Pholus by a young Apollo and possibly Artemis. This reflects the myth where Cheiron, wounded by a poisoned arrow, chooses to give up his immortality and eventually be placed among the stars as the constellation Sagittarius.
Character Description
Cheiron: The wise and noble centaur known for his knowledge and tutoring of many Greek heroes. In the vase scene, he is depicted with a mix of human and horse features, emphasizing his dual nature.
Apollo: The god of music, truth, and prophecy, often shown as a youthful figure. He is depicted guiding Cheiron, showcasing his divine assistance.
Artemis: If present, she would be portrayed as the goddess of the hunt, wilderness, and childbirth, accompanying her brother Apollo.
Prop Description
The primary prop is the krater itself, a large vessel used for mixing wine and water. The painted scene acts as a “prop” within the artwork, featuring items associated with the characters, such as Cheiron’s staff or Apollo’s lyre.
Costuming
**The figures are depicted in traditional Greek attire:
Cheiron: Often shown with a chiton (tunic) or himation (cloak) on his human torso, while his horse body remains uncovered.
Apollo and Artemis: Usually depicted in flowing robes or chitons, highlighting their divine status. Apollo might be adorned with a laurel wreath, symbolizing his connection to prophecy and music.**
What do they/don’t they tell us about the classical world?
They tell us about:
Mythological Importance: The depiction of Cheiron and gods like Apollo and possibly Artemis underscores the cultural significance of mythology and its moral and educational roles in Greek society.
Artistic Techniques: The red-figure technique and the style of the McDaniel Painter provide insights into the artistic methods and aesthetic preferences of the period.
Social Practices: The use of a krater in symposia (drinking parties) reveals social customs related to dining, drinking, and socializing in ancient Greece.
They don’t tell us about:
Everyday Life: While the vase offers a glimpse into mythological themes, it doesn’t directly depict the daily activities of ordinary Greeks.
Political Context: The vase focuses on mythological and cultural themes rather than specific political events or figures of the time.
Detailed Religious Practices: Although it reflects mythological beliefs, it does not provide detailed descriptions of the religious rituals or ceremonies practiced by the Greeks.
Red-figure column krater in mannerist style, “Basel Dancers”
Who is it by?
What year was it created?
What is it?
Why is it significant?
Plot description
Character description
Prop description
Costuming
What do they/don’t they tell us about the classical world?
The death of Pentheus, red-figure kylix
Who is it by? - Attributed to Douris
What year was it created? - Circa 480 BC
What is it? - A red-figure kylix, a type of ancient Greek drinking cup.
Why is it significant?
This kylix is significant for its depiction of the mythological death of Pentheus, a story from Euripides’ tragedy “The Bacchae.” The work of Douris, a renowned vase painter, is celebrated for its detailed and expressive figures, providing valuable insights into Greek mythological themes, religious beliefs, and the artistry of the period.
Plot Description
The scene on the kylix depicts the violent death of Pentheus, the king of Thebes, who is torn apart by the Maenads (female followers of Dionysus) after he attempts to suppress the worship of Dionysus. This act of sparagmos (ritual dismemberment) is a central moment in “The Bacchae,” symbolizing the consequences of defying divine power and the uncontrollable nature of Dionysian ecstasy.
Character Description
Pentheus: The king of Thebes, depicted at the moment of his brutal death. His figure often shows a mixture of fear and disbelief as he is attacked by the frenzied Maenads.
Maenads: The female followers of Dionysus, depicted in a state of ecstatic frenzy as they carry out the sparagmos. Their wild expressions and dynamic poses capture the intensity of their religious fervor.
Dionysus: Although not always depicted in this specific scene, Dionysus’ presence is implicit as the orchestrator of the events leading to Pentheus’ demise. His influence is central to the narrative.
Prop Description
**The kylix itself is a primary prop, used in symposia (drinking parties) to facilitate conversation and communal bonding. Within the depicted scene:
Thyrsus: A staff carried by the Maenads, often entwined with ivy and topped with a pine cone, symbolizing their connection to Dionysus and their role in his rites.
Garments and Jewelry: The Maenads and Pentheus are depicted in detailed attire that signifies their roles and statuses within the mythological context.**
Costuming
**The figures on the kylix are dressed in typical attire:
Pentheus: Often shown in regal clothing, signifying his status as king, though disheveled in the throes of his death.
Maenads: Depicted in flowing, often revealing garments, their attire reflecting their wild, ecstatic state and their role as followers of Dionysus. They may also wear garlands or wreaths, emphasizing their connection to nature and the god of wine.**
What do they/don’t they tell us about the classical world?
They tell us about:
Religious Beliefs: The depiction of the death of Pentheus illustrates the reverence for and fear of the gods, particularly Dionysus, and highlights themes of divine retribution and religious ecstasy.
Mythological Themes: The scene provides insight into popular mythological stories and their moral and social implications, reflecting the values and beliefs of ancient Greek society.
Artistic Techniques: The work of Douris exemplifies the red-figure technique, showcasing detailed and expressive human figures, which are characteristic of this period in Greek vase painting.
They don’t tell us about:
Everyday Life: The scene focuses on a dramatic mythological event rather than daily activities or common social practices of ordinary Greeks.
Political Context: While myths often carried political undertones, this specific depiction does not provide direct information about contemporary political events or figures.
Economic Practices: The kylix does not offer details on the economic systems or trade practices of ancient Greece, though the craftsmanship of the vessel indicates a developed market for fine pottery.
Krater “Choregos Vase” or “Comic Angels”, choregoi
Who is it by?
Attributed to the Choregos Painter
What year was it created?
Circa 400-380 BC
What is it?
A red-figure bell krater, a type of ancient Greek pottery used for mixing wine and water, often during symposia (drinking parties).
Why is it significant?
The “Choregos Vase” is significant for its unique depiction of choregoi (patrons of dramatic productions) alongside characters from Greek comedy, such as Aegisthus and Pyrrhias. It provides valuable insights into the role of theater in Greek society, the interaction between patrons and performers, and the comedic elements of ancient Greek plays. The vase illustrates the cultural importance of drama and the social dynamics of theatrical production.
Plot Description
The scene on the krater likely represents a moment from a comedic play, where the characters Aegisthus and Pyrrhias are involved in a humorous situation. Aegisthus, known from Greek mythology as the lover of Clytemnestra and a central figure in the story of Orestes, is portrayed in a comic light. Pyrrhias, a stock character in comedy, typically represents a rustic or simpleton. The presence of choregoi emphasizes the production and sponsorship aspects of Greek theater.
Character Description
Aegisthus: In the context of Greek comedy, Aegisthus is depicted in a less serious, more farcical manner than in tragedy. He may be shown in exaggerated poses and expressions to elicit humor.
Pyrrhias: A comedic character often depicted as a bumbling or foolish individual, providing comic relief through his actions and interactions with other characters.
Choregoi: The patrons of the theatrical productions, depicted with attributes signifying their status and role in sponsoring the plays. Their presence on the vase highlights their importance in the cultural life of Athens.
Prop Description
**The krater itself is a key prop used in symposia, and within the depicted scene:
Masks: Indicating the theatrical nature of the scene, masks are essential props in Greek theater, representing different characters and emotions.
Costumes: The attire of the characters, especially exaggerated for comedic effect, is integral to their roles and the humor of the scene.
Symbols of Sponsorship: Items such as wreaths or scrolls might be depicted, symbolizing the choregoi’s role in financing and supporting the production.**
Costuming
**The costumes on the krater reflect the theatrical and comedic context:
Aegisthus: Likely dressed in a manner that exaggerates his mythological attributes for comedic effect, possibly with ostentatious and humorous elements.
Pyrrhias: Shown in simple, rustic attire, emphasizing his role as a comic simpleton.
Choregoi: Depicted in attire that signifies their status and wealth, possibly with wreaths or other symbols of their patronage.**
What do they/don’t they tell us about the classical world?
They tell us about:
Theatrical Culture: The depiction highlights the importance of comedy in Greek theater and the cultural value placed on dramatic productions.
Role of Patrons: The presence of choregoi underscores the significant role of wealthy patrons in supporting and financing theatrical performances.
Social Dynamics: The interaction between characters and patrons reflects the social and cultural dynamics of ancient Greek society, particularly in the context of public entertainment.
They don’t tell us about:
Everyday Life: The focus is on theatrical and comedic elements rather than the daily activities of ordinary Greeks.
Political Context: While the vase illustrates aspects of cultural patronage, it does not directly address specific political events or figures.
Economic Practices: The krater does not provide detailed information on the economic systems or trade practices, though it does indicate a market for finely crafted pottery and the arts.
Red-figure calyx krater
Red-Figure Calyx Krater Depicting Medea’s Escape
Who is it by?
Attributed to an anonymous Greek vase painter
What year was it created?
Circa 400-350 BC
What is it?
A calyx krater, a type of large ancient Greek vessel used for mixing wine and water during symposia (drinking parties).
Why is it significant?
This krater is significant as it portrays a pivotal moment from the myth of Medea, a powerful and controversial figure in Greek mythology. Medea’s escape represents themes of revenge, betrayal, and the supernatural, which are central to her story. The depiction provides insights into ancient Greek attitudes towards women, marriage, and the consequences of defiance against societal norms. Additionally, it contributes to our understanding of Greek artistic techniques and storytelling through pottery.
Plot Description
The scene on the krater likely depicts Medea’s dramatic escape from Corinth after committing a series of vengeful and tragic acts. This could include her flight from the city in a chariot drawn by dragons, or her departure after murdering her children as an act of vengeance against her husband, Jason. The scene captures the tension and emotion of Medea’s desperate flight, emphasizing her status as a powerful and morally ambiguous figure.
Character Description
Medea: The central character, depicted as a powerful sorceress and tragic heroine. She may be shown in a chariot or on foot, surrounded by elements of her magic or symbols of her vengeance.
Jason: Medea’s husband and the target of her revenge. His presence in the scene may vary depending on the specific moment depicted, but his betrayal and role in Medea’s suffering are central to the narrative.
Prop Description
**Key props depicted on the krater may include:
Chariot: If Medea’s escape is depicted, a chariot drawn by dragons or other magical creatures may feature prominently, symbolizing her supernatural abilities.
Children: If the scene depicts Medea’s departure after murdering her children, their bodies or representations of them may be present, serving as a powerful and tragic motif.
Magical Elements: Symbols of Medea’s sorcery, such as potions, scrolls, or magical implements, may be included to emphasize her supernatural powers.**
Costuming
**Costuming on the krater reflects the characters’ roles and the dramatic context:
Medea: Shown in robes or attire befitting her status as a powerful sorceress, possibly with elements of mysticism or exoticism to highlight her foreign origins.
Jason: Depicted in the attire of a Greek hero or nobleman, reflecting his status as a prince and a member of the Argonauts.**
What do they/don’t they tell us about the classical world?
They tell us about:
Mythological Beliefs: The depiction of Medea’s escape reflects ancient Greek beliefs in the power of magic, the capriciousness of fate, and the consequences of human ambition and hubris.
Social Norms: The portrayal of Medea challenges traditional gender roles and societal expectations, highlighting tensions between individual desires and societal norms in ancient Greece.
Artistic Techniques: The krater demonstrates the skill and creativity of ancient Greek vase painters in capturing complex narratives and emotional depth through visual storytelling.
They don’t tell us about:
Historical Accuracy: While the krater provides insights into mythological beliefs and cultural attitudes, it does not necessarily reflect historical events or individuals.
Everyday Life: The focus is on a dramatic and mythological event rather than the daily activities or common social practices of ordinary Greeks.
Political Context: While the mythological narrative can carry political undertones, this specific depiction does not provide direct information about contemporary political events or figures.
Pelike by Phiale painter
Pelike by Phiale Painter Depicting Tragic Actors Dressing
Who is it by?
Phiale Painter
What year was it created?
Circa 340-320 BC
What is it?
A pelike, a type of ancient Greek pottery used for storing liquids such as wine or oil.
Why is it significant?
This pelike is significant as it provides a unique glimpse into the world of Greek theater, specifically the preparation and performance of tragic actors. The depiction of actors dressing for their roles sheds light on the theatrical practices of ancient Greece, including costume design, character portrayal, and the rituals involved in theatrical performance. It offers valuable insights into the artistry and craftsmanship of Greek pottery, as well as the cultural significance of theater in Greek society.
Plot Description
The scene on the pelike likely depicts actors in the process of preparing for a tragic performance. This could include actors donning costumes, applying masks, or rehearsing their roles backstage. The focus is on the theatrical aspect rather than a specific plot from a tragedy, highlighting the behind-the-scenes preparation and artistry involved in Greek theater.
Character Description
Tragic Actors: Depicted in various stages of preparation, the actors may be shown wearing masks, robes, and other theatrical attire appropriate for their roles. Their expressions and gestures convey the intensity and seriousness of their craft.
Prop Description
**Key props depicted on the pelike may include:
Masks: Symbolizing the transformation of the actors into their tragic roles, masks are essential props in Greek theater, enabling performers to embody different characters and emotions.
Costumes: Robes, tunics, and other garments associated with tragic characters may be depicted, reflecting the attire worn by actors during performances.
Accessories: Props such as theatrical props or stage equipment may be included to enhance the realism of the scene and evoke the atmosphere of the theater.**
Costuming
**Costuming on the pelike reflects the theatrical context and the characters being portrayed:
Tragic Actors: Shown in elaborate robes and masks, the actors’ costumes are designed to evoke the grandeur and solemnity of tragic performances. The style and symbolism of their attire may vary depending on the specific roles they are preparing to portray.**
What do they/don’t they tell us about the classical world?
They tell us about:
Theatrical Practices: The depiction of actors dressing for a tragic performance provides insights into the techniques, rituals, and artistry involved in Greek theater, enriching our understanding of ancient theatrical practices.
Cultural Significance: The pelike highlights the importance of theater in Greek society as a form of entertainment, education, and cultural expression, reflecting the value placed on storytelling and performance in ancient Greece.
They don’t tell us about:
Everyday Life: While the scene provides insights into theatrical practices, it does not necessarily reflect the daily activities or common social practices of ordinary Greeks.
Historical Events: The focus is on the artistic and cultural aspects of theater rather than specific historical events or individuals.
Political Context: While theater often addressed political themes, this specific depiction does not provide direct information about contemporary political events or figures
Red-figure ‘maenad’
Red-Figure ‘Maenad’ Stamnos by Dinos Painter
Who is it by?
Dinos Painter
What year was it created?
Circa 420-400 BC
What is it?
A stamnos, a type of ancient Greek pottery used for storing and transporting liquids such as wine or oil.
Why is it significant?
This stamnos is significant as it provides a representation of a maenad, a female follower of the god Dionysus, in the context of Greek mythology and religion. Maenads were central figures in Dionysian rituals, known for their ecstatic and frenzied behavior. The depiction of a maenad on the stamnos offers insights into ancient Greek religious practices, the role of women in religious ceremonies, and the cultural significance of Dionysian worship. Additionally, the work of the Dinos Painter represents a high point in red-figure vase painting, showcasing the artistic skill and creativity of ancient Greek potters.
Plot Description
The scene on the stamnos likely depicts a maenad engaged in a ritualistic or celebratory activity associated with the worship of Dionysus. This could include dancing, playing musical instruments, or participating in a procession as part of a religious festival honoring the god of wine and revelry. The focus is on capturing the ecstatic and uninhibited nature of Dionysian worship, emphasizing the transformative power of religious ecstasy.
Character Description
Maenad: Depicted as a young woman in flowing garments, the maenad is shown in a state of ecstatic frenzy, with wild gestures and disheveled hair. Her expression conveys the intensity of her religious experience and her connection to the divine.
Prop Description
**Key props depicted on the stamnos may include:
Thyrsus: A staff carried by maenads, often entwined with ivy and topped with a pine cone, symbolizing their connection to Dionysus and their role in his rites.
Musical Instruments: Maenads may be shown playing instruments such as the tambourine or the aulos (double flute), accompanying their ecstatic dances and rituals.
Wreaths and Garlands: Symbols of festive celebration, wreaths and garlands are often depicted in scenes of Dionysian worship, emphasizing the joyous and communal nature of the rituals.**
Costuming
**Costuming on the stamnos reflects the ritualistic and celebratory context of Dionysian worship:
Maenad: Shown in lightweight and flowing garments, the maenad’s attire allows for freedom of movement during her ecstatic dances and rituals. Her clothing may be adorned with symbolic motifs such as grapevines or ivy, reflecting her association with Dionysus and the natural world.**
What do they/don’t they tell us about the classical world?
They tell us about:
Religious Practices: The depiction of a maenad on the stamnos offers insights into the religious beliefs and practices of ancient Greece, particularly the worship of Dionysus and the role of women in religious ceremonies.
Cultural Significance: The stamnos highlights the cultural importance of Dionysian worship as a form of communal celebration and spiritual experience, reflecting the values and beliefs of ancient Greek society.
They don’t tell us about:
Everyday Life: While the scene provides insights into religious rituals, it does not necessarily reflect the daily activities or common social practices of ordinary Greeks.
Historical Events: The focus is on mythological and religious themes rather than specific historical events or individuals.
Political Context: While Dionysian worship could have political implications, this specific depiction does not provide direct information about contemporary political events or figures
Red-figure vase fragment Single actor possibly playing Perseus and 2 audience members / judges
Red-figure vase fragment: single actor possibly playing Perseus and two audience members/judges depicted on an chous (wine-jug)
Location: Vlastos Collection, Athens
Date: c. 420 BC
Significance: the only Attic vase to show a stage, and the only ancient Greek painting to portray a theatre audience
Who is it by?
What year was it created?
What is it?
Why is it significant?
Plot description
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What do they/don’t they tell us about the classical world?
