The artwork, titled “Terracotta Skyphos (deep Drinking Cup),” is a remarkable piece crafted by Ancient Greek Pottery around c. 325 BC. Made of terracotta, this artifact belongs to the Classical art movement and depicts mythological imagery. It is part of the Red-figure series and currently resides in the Metropolitan Museum of Art (Met) in New York City, NY, US.
The artwork is a deep drinking cup, known as a skyphos, characterized by its two horizontal handles and flared lip. The outer surface intricately displays mythological figures, painted in the distinctive red-figure technique against a black background, which was prevalent in ancient Greek pottery of the time. The scene captures a seated figure, possibly a god or a hero, attended by another standing figure who is adorned with a shield and a helmet, suggesting themes of divinity and heroism. The background is bordered with intricate patterns and decorative elements, further enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the piece.