Description
| ITEM | Skyphos with graffito in form of a swastika |
| MATERIAL | Pottery |
| CULTURE | Greek |
| PERIOD | 4th Century B.C |
| DIMENSIONS | 56 mm x 178 mm x 118 mm |
| CONDITION | Good condition |
| PROVENANCE | Ex German private collection, P.A., Munich, acquired before 2000s |
A Greek skyphos with graffitos is a type of drinking cup that offers valuable insights into ancient Greek daily life and social practices. The skyphos is a deep, two-handled cup typically used for drinking wine or other beverages. The graffitos—inscriptions or drawings scratched into the surface of the pottery—add a layer of personal and historical significance to these otherwise functional vessels. These inscriptions can range from simple names and dedications to more elaborate drawings and messages, providing a glimpse into the personal interactions and social customs of the period.
The practice of creating graffitos on skyphoi was both an artistic and communicative act. These markings were often made by users or owners of the cups, and they can include anything from playful or humorous messages to serious or ritualistic inscriptions. The content of the graffitos can shed light on the social context in which the skyphos was used. For instance, inscriptions might reveal the names of individuals who used the cup, social interactions, or even local dialects and slang. In some cases, the graffitos might include symbols or drawings that were meaningful to the user or reflective of contemporary cultural themes.
The study of graffitos on skyphoi contributes to our understanding of ancient Greek culture in several ways. They provide evidence of how people interacted with their everyday objects and how they imbued these items with personal significance. Additionally, these inscriptions offer insights into the literacy and artistic practices of the time, demonstrating that writing and drawing were not confined to monumental or official contexts but were also part of personal and informal communication.
