It reveals a rich tapestry of daily life and artistry. Greek Pottery Uses ranged from storage, carrying, mixing, serving, and drinking, to more delicate purposes like housing cosmetics and perfumes in the ancient world. Each piece tells a story, inviting us into the past, Discovering the Hidden Treasures of Ancient Greek Pottery Uses.
- Storage of grains, oils, and wines.
- Carrying water or other liquids.
- Mixing of wine and water.
- Serving food and beverages.
- Drinking vessels for wine or water.
- Cosmetic and perfume containers.
- Ritualistic and religious ceremonies.
- Funerary purposes, such as burial offerings.
- Displaying artistic narratives and myths.
- As gifts or prizes in athletic competitions.
1 Storage of Grains, Oils, and Wines
Grains
Grains were a staple in the Greek diet. To keep them safe from pests and moisture, they were stored in large ceramic pots known as pithoi. These pots were often partially buried in the ground to maintain a cool temperature, ensuring the grains stayed fresh for longer.
Oils
Olive oil, in particular, was a significant product in ancient Greece, both for consumption and other uses like lighting lamps or as a base for perfumes. Lekythoi were the go-to vessels for storing oil. Their narrow necks and mouths made it easy to pour out the oil without spilling.
Wines
Ah, wine, the beloved beverage of the Greeks! They stored wine in amphorae, which had a pointed base. This unique design allowed them to be stacked efficiently in storage rooms or even inside ships when transported. The shape also helped in sedimentation, with the sediments settling at the bottom, ensuring clearer wine when poured.
2 Carrying Water or Other Liquids
Water is such a fundamental part of life, and in ancient Greece, pottery played a crucial role in its transportation and storage.
Hydria – The Water Carrier
The hydria was a specialized vessel designed explicitly for carrying water. It had three handles – two horizontal ones on either side for lifting and a vertical one at the back for pouring. The design was so practical! Imagine fetching water from a public fountain; the two side handles made it easier to lift a full pot onto one’s shoulder or head, while the vertical handle was perfect for pouring the water once you got home.
Amphorae – Versatility at Its Best
While amphorae were primarily used for storing wine, they were versatile enough to carry other liquids as well. Their elongated shape and pointed base made them ideal for stacking and storing, but they were equally efficient in transporting liquids over long distances, especially by sea.
Chous – The Joyful Jug
The chous was a jug primarily used during the Anthesteria, one of the festivals in ancient Athens. It was typically filled with wine, but it’s easy to see how its design could be used for carrying other liquids too. With a broad body and a single handle, it was both functional and symbolic.
The ancient Greeks had a knack for creating pottery that was not only beautiful but also incredibly functional. Every time I think about these vessels, I’m reminded of the genius of ancient craftsmen who made daily tasks a bit more manageable and a lot more elegant.
3 Mixing of Wine and Water
You know, the ancient Greeks had a fascinating relationship with wine. They didn’t drink it straight like we often do today. Instead, they believed in mixing wine with water to achieve the perfect balance.
Krater – The Centerpiece of Social Gatherings
Enter the krater, a large bowl-like vessel that was the heart of many social gatherings. This was where the magic happened. Wine would be poured into the krater, followed by water, and then the two would be mixed together. The krater wasn’t just a functional item; it was often beautifully decorated and became a centerpiece at banquets and symposiums.
The Ritual and Reason
Now, you might wonder, why dilute the wine? Well, for the Greeks, drinking undiluted wine was seen as a bit barbaric and could lead to a loss of self-control. By mixing wine with water, they believed they were achieving a harmonious blend that allowed for enjoyment without overindulgence. It was all about moderation and savoring the experience.
The Social Significance
This act of mixing wasn’t just about the drink itself. It was a ritual, a shared experience that brought people together. The host would decide the ratio of wine to water, setting the tone for the gathering. A stronger mix might be chosen for a lively celebration, while a milder blend could be preferred for a more relaxed evening of philosophical discussions.
4 Serving Food and Beverages
When I think about ancient Greek pottery, it’s not just the artistry that captivates me, but also its functionality. These pieces weren’t just for show; they played a crucial role in the daily lives of the Greeks, especially when it came to serving food and drinks.
The Beauty of the Kylix and Kantharos
Let’s start with beverages. The kylix, a shallow stemmed cup with a wide brim, was a favorite for serving wine. Its design was perfect for sipping and enjoying the aroma of the wine. Then there’s the kantharos, a deep cup with high-swung handles. It’s often associated with Dionysus, the god of wine, and was ideal for toasting and celebrating.
Plates, Bowls, and More
For food, the Greeks had a range of pottery. The pinax was a flat plate, often used for serving bread or meat. The lekanis, a lidded dish, was perfect for stews or other wet foods. And let’s not forget the dinos, a large bowl for mixing and serving food. Each piece was thoughtfully designed for its purpose, making the dining experience both functional and elegant.
A Reflection of Social Gatherings
Beyond their practical use, these vessels give us a glimpse into the social customs of the time. Banquets, feasts, and symposiums were integral to Greek society. The way food and drinks were served, the choice of pottery, and even the decorations on them, all played a role in setting the mood and theme of the gathering.
5 Drinking Vessels for Wine or Water
The Elegance of the Kylix
First up, there’s the kylix. This wide, shallow cup was the go-to for wine. Its broad surface allowed the wine to breathe, enhancing its aroma and flavor. The design also made it easy to drink from, especially during symposiums where philosophical discussions flowed as freely as the wine itself.
The Versatility of the Skyphos
Then we have the skyphos, a deep two-handled cup. It was versatile, used for both wine and water. Its sturdy design made it a common choice for everyday use. Imagine sitting in an ancient Greek home, sipping water from a beautifully crafted skyphos after a long day.
The Kantharos and its Dionysian Connection
The kantharos is another fascinating piece. With its high handles arching above the rim, it’s often linked to Dionysus, the god of wine. Drinking from a kantharos wasn’t just about quenching thirst; it was a nod to the divine, a small ritual in itself.
Hydria – The Water Carrier
For water, the hydria stands out. This vessel, with its three handles, was specifically designed for collecting, carrying, and pouring water. It’s a testament to the Greeks’ attention to detail that they had a vessel dedicated just for water, considering its importance in daily life.
Drinking vessels offer a window into the daily lives and values of the ancient Greeks. They weren’t just functional items; they were pieces of art, each telling a story, each holding a memory. Whether it was a grand symposium or a simple family dinner, these vessels played a part.
6 Cosmetic and Perfume Containers
When I think about the ancient Greeks, their artistry and sophistication always come to mind. And this elegance wasn’t just reserved for grand sculptures or temples; it extended to the smallest of everyday items, like containers for cosmetics and perfumes.
Alabastron – The Perfume Vessel
The alabastron is one of those containers that I find particularly intriguing. This elongated flask, often made of alabaster (hence the name), was primarily used to hold perfumed oils. Its design, with a narrow neck and a flattened body, ensured that the precious oils inside didn’t spill easily. When I picture someone in ancient Greece, carefully applying scented oil from an alabastron, it’s a vivid reminder of how personal grooming rituals have ancient roots.
Pyxis – The Cosmetic Box
Then there’s the pyxis, a small cylindrical box with a lid. It was the ancient equivalent of a modern-day vanity box. Women would store their cosmetics, jewelry, and even trinkets in it. The very idea that, thousands of years ago, someone was using a pyxis to store their kohl or rouge, makes me feel a deep connection to the past. It’s like a bridge between ancient beauty rituals and today’s makeup routines.
Lekythos – The Oil Container
Another container that catches my attention is the lekythos. It was mainly used for storing oil, often scented. Its slender and elegant design made it easy to pour oil without wasting a drop. Given the value of scented oils in ancient times, having a vessel like the lekythos was essential.
The intricate designs and motifs painted on them were not just decorative; they told stories, captured moments, and even conveyed emotions. It makes me appreciate the thought and care the ancient Greeks put into even the most mundane aspects of life.
7 Ritualistic and Religious Ceremonies
One of the most captivating aspects is their deep-rooted connection to the divine. The Greeks had a profound relationship with their gods and goddesses, and this bond was often expressed through various ritualistic and religious ceremonies.
Offerings to the Gods
One of the first things that come to mind is the practice of making offerings. Pottery played a significant role here. Vessels filled with wine, oil, or grains were often presented to the deities as a sign of devotion or to seek favor. These offerings weren’t just about giving to the gods but also about establishing a connection, a dialogue if you will, between the mortal and the divine.
Festivals and Processions
Then there were the grand festivals. Imagine the city of Athens during the Panathenaia, a festival dedicated to the goddess Athena. Processions where citizens carried beautifully crafted pottery filled with olive oil as prizes for athletic contests. The very design of these vessels, often depicting scenes from myths or athletic feats, tells us so much about the importance of these events in the social and religious life of the Greeks.
Funerary Practices
Death, too, had its rituals. Lekythoi, which I mentioned earlier, were often used in funerary practices. These vessels, filled with oil, were either offered at graves or depicted scenes related to death and the afterlife. It’s a poignant reminder of how the Greeks viewed death – not as an end, but as a transition to another phase of existence.
Mystery Cults
I also find the mystery cults fascinating. These were religious groups that had secret rites and ceremonies. While much about them remains, well, a mystery, we know that pottery was often used in their rituals. The designs on these pots might provide clues about the cult’s beliefs and practices, but they’re often enigmatic, leaving us with more questions than answers.
Whether it’s through grand festivals or intimate offerings, these rituals show a society deeply in tune with the spiritual realm. And the pottery? It wasn’t just a tool but a bridge between the earthly and the divine.
8 Funerary Purposes, Such as Burial Offerings
When I delve into the ancient Greek world, the way they approached death and the afterlife is truly captivating. It’s not just about the end of life, but a reflection of their beliefs, hopes, and the way they honored their loved ones.
Honoring the Departed
You see, for the Greeks, death wasn’t the end. It was a transition, a journey to another realm. And to ensure that their loved ones had a smooth passage, they would place burial offerings in the graves. These offerings were often in the form of pottery, filled with food, wine, or oil. It was their way of providing for the deceased in the afterlife.
Symbolism in Pottery
The pottery used for these offerings wasn’t random. They were carefully chosen, often decorated with scenes that had a deep significance. Some depicted moments from the deceased’s life, while others showed scenes from myths about the afterlife. It’s like they were telling a story, giving us a glimpse into the person’s life and beliefs.
Lekythoi – The Oil Flasks
One of the most common pottery types used for funerary purposes was the lekythos. These were slender oil flasks, and they held a special significance. The oil they contained was not just any oil. It was perfumed, and it was used to anoint the body of the deceased. By placing a lekythos in the grave, the family was ensuring that their loved one would always have this precious oil with them.
Grave Markers and Monuments
Beyond the offerings inside the grave, pottery also played a role in marking the graves. Large vases, often elaborately decorated, were placed as grave markers. They stood as monuments, a testament to the person’s life and the love of those they left behind.
Thinking about these practices, I’m always struck by the depth of emotion and belief they represent. It’s a reminder that for the Greeks, death was not something to be feared. It was a part of life, a journey to be embraced. And through their burial offerings, they were ensuring that their loved ones were never truly gone, but always remembered and cherished.
9 Displaying Artistic Narratives and Myths
When I think about ancient Greek pottery, what really stands out to me is how it wasn’t just about function. It was also about storytelling. The Greeks had this incredible knack for weaving narratives and myths into their pottery, turning everyday objects into canvases for their tales.
The Power of Imagery
Greek pottery wasn’t just about beautiful designs or patterns. Each image, each scene painted on a vase or a jug, told a story. Whether it was the heroic deeds of Hercules, the cunning of Odysseus, or the tragic love of Orpheus and Eurydice, these tales came to life on pottery.
A Glimpse into Ancient Beliefs
Through these artistic narratives, we get a window into the Greek psyche. Their beliefs, their values, their fears, and their aspirations are all laid bare. For instance, a vase depicting the Twelve Labors of Hercules isn’t just about his strength and heroism. It’s also about perseverance, about overcoming insurmountable odds, and about the human spirit’s indomitable will.
The Role of the Potters and Painters
It’s worth noting that the potters and painters of ancient Greece were not just craftsmen. They were storytellers. They had the challenging task of condensing complex narratives into a series of images, ensuring that the essence of the story was captured. And they did it with such finesse! Every time I look at a piece of Greek pottery, I feel like I’m being pulled into a story, like I’m a part of that world.
Beyond Myths – Social Narratives
While myths were a popular theme, the Greeks also used pottery to depict scenes from everyday life. Be it a symposium, a sporting event, or a harvest festival, these scenes offer a snapshot of ancient Greek society. They tell us about their customs, their social dynamics, and even their sense of humor.
I say, Greek pottery was like a visual diary. It captured the zeitgeist of the era, preserving it for future generations. And as someone who loves both art and history, I find it absolutely fascinating. It’s like the pottery is whispering tales from a bygone era, waiting for someone to listen.
10 As Gifts or Prizes in Athletic Competitions
You know, I’m always struck by how central athletic competitions were to their society. These weren’t just games; they were deeply rooted in their culture, religion, and politics. And what’s fascinating is how pottery played a role in this.
The Prestige of Victory
Winning an athletic competition in ancient Greece wasn’t just about personal glory or bragging rights. It was a matter of honor, not just for the individual but for their city-state. Victors were celebrated, paraded, and often given lifelong privileges. And among the many honors they received, beautifully crafted pottery was a common prize.
Not Just Any Pottery
These weren’t your run-of-the-mill pots. They were often exquisitely crafted, with intricate designs and narratives that celebrated the athlete’s achievements. Imagine being an athlete and receiving a vase that not only is beautiful but tells the story of your victory. It’s like receiving a trophy and a history book all in one.
The Panathenaic Amphorae
One of the most iconic pieces of pottery associated with athletic prizes is the Panathenaic amphorae. These were large vases given as prizes in the Panathenaic Games, a major athletic festival in ancient Athens. What’s cool about these amphorae is that they were filled with olive oil, a valuable commodity. But more than the oil, the amphorae themselves, adorned with scenes of the competition, were a testament to the athlete’s prowess.
A Lasting Legacy
While the olive oil would be used up, the amphorae remained, often passed down through generations. They served as a constant reminder of the family’s honor and the legacy of the victor. It’s a beautiful blend of utility and symbolism, where the vessel’s function and its narrative go hand in hand.
In a way, these pieces of pottery encapsulate the spirit of ancient Greek athletic competitions.
What Are The Different Techniques That Were Used to Create Ancient Greek Pottery?
It wasn’t just about molding clay; it was a multi-step process that combined both art and science.
The Basics – Preparing the Clay
Before anything else, the clay had to be prepared. Potters would first source the clay, often from specific regions known for their quality. This clay was then purified, removing impurities and ensuring a smooth consistency. It’s a bit like baking, where you sift the flour to get the best texture for your dough.
Shaping the Vessel
Once the clay was ready, it was time to shape the pottery. Potters would use a wheel, spinning it with their feet while shaping the clay with their hands. This required a lot of skill and precision. The shape of the vessel was often determined by its intended use, whether it was a broad bowl for mixing wine and water or a tall amphora for storing oil.
Firing Up the Kiln
After shaping, the pottery needed to be dried and then fired. The kiln, a specialized oven for pottery, played a crucial role here. The pottery was first fired at a lower temperature, turning the clay hard and brittle. This initial firing was crucial as it prepared the pottery for the next steps.
Applying the Slip
Once the initial firing was done, a slip (a liquid mixture of clay and water) was applied. This slip, when fired, would turn black, and it was used to create the distinctive black figures we often associate with Greek pottery.
Painting and Detailing
With the slip applied, artists would then paint on the pottery using brushes. They’d create intricate designs, from mythological scenes to everyday life. After painting, the pottery was fired again, this time at a higher temperature. This caused the slip to turn black, contrasting with the reddish color of the clay.
Glazing and Final Firing
Some pottery, especially in later periods, was also glazed. This glaze added a shiny finish to the pottery and often changed the color of the slip. After glazing, the pottery was fired one last time to set the glaze.
How did Ancient Greek Vase Painting Differ from Egyptian Art?
Ancient Greek vase painting and Egyptian art, for instance, are two distinct art forms that offer a glimpse into their respective societies.
Themes and Narratives
Ancient Greek Vase Painting
Greek vase paintings often depicted scenes from daily life, mythology, and athletic competitions. The Greeks loved to tell stories through their art, and their vases became a canvas for these tales. From the heroic deeds of Hercules to the tragic love of Orpheus and Eurydice, these narratives were rich and varied.
Egyptian Art
Egyptian art, on the other hand, was deeply rooted in religion and the afterlife. Pharaohs, gods, and goddesses dominated the scenes. The art was symbolic, aiming to ensure a safe passage to the afterlife, or to show the divine nature of the pharaoh.
Stylistic Differences
Ancient Greek Vase Painting
Greek vase painting was dynamic and often showed motion. Figures were depicted in various poses, sometimes even overlapping. The use of black-figure and red-figure techniques allowed for intricate detailing, making the scenes come alive.
Egyptian Art
Egyptian art was more static and formal. Figures were often shown in a standard pose – a profile view with heads and legs in profile but torsos facing forward. This style was consistent and remained relatively unchanged for centuries.
Use of Color
Ancient Greek Vase Painting
Greek vases primarily used black and red colors, derived from the clay and the firing process. Over time, they introduced more colors, but the primary focus remained on the silhouette and the narrative.
Egyptian Art
Egyptian art was more colorful. They used a broader palette, including blues, greens, and golds. These colors were symbolic, with each hue representing different elements or deities.
Purpose and Function
Ancient Greek Vase Painting
Greek vases were functional. They were used for storage, carrying liquids, and as decorative pieces. The art on these vases was a reflection of Greek society and its values.
Egyptian Art
Much of Egyptian art was funerary. It adorned tombs, temples, and monuments. The primary purpose was religious and ritualistic, aiming to honor the gods or to ensure a safe journey to the afterlife.
In conclusion, while both Ancient Greek vase painting and Egyptian art are magnificent in their own right, they offer different perspectives. The Greeks focused on narrative and daily life, while the Egyptians were more concerned with the divine and the eternal. It’s like comparing two beautiful languages, each unique, each with its own rhythm and melody.
Is There a Certain Type of Surface That is Favored for Creating Vases in Ancient Greece?
The Greeks were meticulous in their craft, and the choice of surface played a pivotal role in the final outcome of their pottery.
Clay – The Preferred Material
Characteristics and Choice
The primary material favored by ancient Greek potters was clay. Now, this wasn’t just any clay. The Greeks sourced specific types of clay that had the right consistency and texture. This clay, especially the one from regions like Attica, was known for its fine quality and reddish-orange hue.
Preparation and Treatment
Before the clay could be used, it underwent a rigorous preparation process. It was first purified, removing any impurities or stones. Then, it was kneaded thoroughly, much like dough, to achieve a consistent and pliable texture. This made it easier to shape and ensured that the final product was free of cracks or imperfections.
The Importance of Firing
Achieving the Right Surface
Once the vase was shaped, it was left to dry. But the real transformation happened in the kiln. The firing process was a game-changer. Depending on the temperature and duration of firing, the clay could take on various shades, from deep red to black. This wasn’t just about aesthetics; the firing also made the pottery more durable.
The Three-Stage Firing Process
The Greeks used a three-stage firing process. Initially, the kiln was heated, turning the pottery red. In the second stage, the kiln’s vents were closed, reducing the oxygen and turning the pottery black. In the final stage, the vents were reopened, and the pottery turned red again. However, areas painted with a special slip remained black, creating the distinctive black-figure style of Greek pottery.
I say, while the Greeks had various materials at their disposal, they favored a specific type of clay for their vases. The choice wasn’t random; it was based on the clay’s ability to provide a smooth, consistent surface that was perfect for both shaping and painting. The meticulous preparation and firing process further enhanced the surface, making it ideal for the intricate designs and narratives that ancient Greek pottery is celebrated for.
What Period Was There an Increase in Popularity for Terracotta Figurines in Subsequent Hellenistic Periods?
The rise in popularity of terracotta figurines during the Hellenistic periods.
The Hellenistic Era
A Time of Cultural Flourishing
The Hellenistic period, spanning from the death of Alexander the Great in 323 BCE to the rise of the Roman Empire in 31 BCE, was a time of immense cultural and artistic growth. This era saw the expansion of Greek influence across vast territories, leading to a fusion of cultures and artistic practices.
Terracotta Figurines – A Symbol of Everyday Life
Why Terracotta?
Terracotta, a type of earthenware clay, was readily available and relatively easy to mold, making it a popular choice for creating small, detailed figurines. These figurines were not just decorative items; they held significant cultural and religious value.
The Peak of Popularity
It was during the 3rd and 2nd centuries BCE, right in the heart of the Hellenistic period, that terracotta figurines saw a surge in popularity. Cities like Tanagra, Myrina, and Smyrna became renowned centers for the production of these figurines.
The Themes and Uses
Depicting Daily Life
These figurines often portrayed scenes from everyday life, capturing the essence of the Hellenistic society. From women in their daily chores to soldiers, children, and even animals, these figurines were a window into the world of ancient Greece.
Religious and Funerary Significance
Beyond daily life, terracotta figurines also had religious importance. They were frequently used as votive offerings in sanctuaries or placed in tombs as burial goods, believed to accompany the deceased in the afterlife.
The Hellenistic period, particularly the 3rd and 2nd centuries BCE, marked a significant rise in the popularity of terracotta figurines. These figurines, with their intricate details and depictions of daily life, offer a unique insight into the cultural and artistic landscape of ancient Greece during this era.
How Did the Use and Purpose of Ancient Greek Pottery Change Over Time?
Art and utility often evolve hand in hand. Ancient Greek pottery is no exception to this. From the archaic periods to the subsequent Hellenistic eras, the use and purpose of this pottery underwent some fascinating transformations.
The Archaic and Classical Periods
Utility Meets Artistry
In the earlier phases, Greek pottery was primarily utilitarian. Pots, amphorae, and kraters were used for everyday tasks like storing oil, wine, and grains. However, these weren’t just mundane objects. The Greeks took pride in their craftsmanship, adorning these vessels with intricate designs and narratives, making them a blend of function and art.
Transition to the Hellenistic Period
Cultural Fusion and Artistic Evolution
As we move into the Hellenistic period, post Alexander the Great’s conquests, there was a significant cultural amalgamation. This fusion is evident in the pottery of the time. The designs became more intricate, and the narratives more diverse, reflecting the broader world the Greeks were now a part of.
Shift in Purpose
While pottery continued to serve its primary utilitarian functions, there was a noticeable shift towards more decorative and symbolic uses. For instance, terracotta figurines became popular, often used as decorative items, religious offerings, or even as toys.
The Role of Pottery in Society
A Reflection of Changing Times
The pottery of the Hellenistic period was more than just art or utility. It was a mirror to the societal changes. The increased interactions with different cultures, the rise of new city-states, and the changing dynamics of power and wealth all influenced the designs, uses, and purposes of pottery.
From Utility to Luxury
Another interesting trend was the shift from pottery being a common household item to a luxury good. With the advent of metal and glass vessels, pottery, especially the finely crafted ones, became more of a status symbol.
While the core utility of Greek pottery as containers remained consistent, its role in society, the narratives it portrayed, and its symbolic significance underwent a transformation during the Hellenistic periods. It’s a testament to how art evolves, reflecting the changing times and the ever-shifting sands of culture and history.
Why is Ancient Pottery Important?
Each piece, with its unique design and purpose, tells a story of the past, offering us a glimpse into the lives, beliefs, and cultures of ancient civilizations.
A Window to the Past
Tales in Clay
Ancient pottery often carries intricate designs and depictions. These aren’t just random drawings; they’re narratives. From scenes of daily life, religious rituals, to grand battles and mythological tales, these designs provide insights into what mattered to those societies. It’s like having a visual diary of an era long gone.
Cultural and Technological Insights
Craftsmanship and Innovation
The techniques used in pottery-making can tell us a lot about the technological advancements of a civilization. The type of clay, the firing methods, the glazes used – each of these elements speaks to the knowledge and resources available at the time.
Trade and Cultural Exchange
The presence of a particular style of pottery in a distant land can indicate trade routes and cultural exchanges. For instance, finding Greek pottery in an ancient Egyptian site suggests interactions between these two civilizations.
Spiritual and Ritualistic Significance
Beyond the Mundane
Many ancient pots weren’t just for daily use. They held religious and ritualistic significance. Some were used in sacred ceremonies, while others were crafted as offerings to the gods or to accompany the deceased in the afterlife.
Preservation of Art and Expression
A Canvas of Creativity
Pottery was one of the primary mediums for artistic expression in many ancient cultures. The styles, patterns, and motifs evolved over time, reflecting changing aesthetic sensibilities, influences, and innovations. By studying these, we can trace the evolution of art in different civilizations.
Ancient pottery is more than just earthenware. It’s a rich tapestry of history, culture, art, and human expression. Every shard, every fragment tells a story, and as we piece them together, we get a fuller picture of our shared human heritage.
References
Roman Antique Ceramic Vases | The Amazing Unearthing Of Lekythos by Ed Shears
- Discovering how Roman ceramics were made and used in ancient time.
Understanding Greek Vases: A Guide to Terms, Styles, and Techniques by Andrew J. Clark
- This richly illustrated book offers definitions and descriptions of Greek vase shapes, painters, and techniques encountered in museum exhibitions and publications on ancient Greek ceramics. It provides explanations of the terms most frequently encountered by museum-goers and includes an essay on how to look at Greek vases and another on the conservation of ancient ceramics.
The Art of Vase-Painting in Classical Athens
- This book is a significant contribution to the history of Greek vase-painting, focusing on the techniques, especially that of drawing in outline on a white ground.
Greek Painted Pottery by Robert Manuel Cook
- The book covers the pottery industry and pottery-making techniques, including firing, the types of local clay which were used, and inscription.
