Description
| ITEM | Kothon, Type jug |
| MATERIAL | Pottery |
| CULTURE | Greek |
| PERIOD | 5th Century B.C |
| DIMENSIONS | 60 mm x 50 mm |
| CONDITION | Good condition |
| LOCATION | Wine Museum – Nawrot, Mechelinki (Poland) |
The kothon is a distinctive type of jug used in ancient Greece, particularly during the 5th century B.C. It is characterized by its low, wide body, a small central opening, and a broad, flat rim. These features made it particularly suited for holding and pouring liquids, and its design helped prevent spillage. The kothon was commonly made of ceramic and was often decorated with simple black-glaze or painted motifs, reflecting the styles prevalent in Classical Greece. Some examples have been found with more elaborate decoration, indicating that they may have been used for both daily and ritualistic purposes.
One of the most fascinating aspects of the kothon is its association with military and travel use. Ancient Greek hoplites (citizen-soldiers) are believed to have carried kothones as part of their essential gear. The practical design allowed them to store and drink water or wine while on campaign. The flat base made it stable on uneven surfaces, and its narrow opening minimized the risk of contamination, an important feature in an era where clean drinking water was not always readily available. Some scholars suggest that the kothon was also used for holding perfumed oils, which could have had both hygienic and ritualistic significance.
