The Kylix in Context
Erin Clossey, Mount Holyoke College

When one thinks of ancient Greek art, probably what most readily springs to mind is vast array of vase painting created during the Archaic and Classical periods of the Greek civilization. Since the vases did not serve an exclusively aesthetic purpose, but were also functional, oftentimes, the scenes or figures depicted on the vases are either related to the function of the vase, or are at least relevant to its use. This is easily observed when looking at kylikes, or Greek drinking cups. While the majority of scenes portrayed on other types of vessels (amphorae, hydriae, etc.) are relatively serious, often involving gods and/or heroes being godlike and/or heroic, the kylix most often depicts scenes of a humorous, light-hearted, or sexual nature.

The kylix is associated with celebrations and feasts, and was used as a wine cup. Dionysos, as god of wine and "liberation," makes several appearances in the repertoire of kylikes, as do his libidinous sidekicks, the satyrs. And as sex is often the end result of excess revelry, it, too, has its place among popular scenes painted on kylikes.

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