Greek, Hellenistic, 3rd century B.C.

Terracotta

H: 7.8 cm (3.0 in) & 12.5 cm (4.9 in)  

D: 17.4 cm (6.8 in) & 18.2 cm (7.1 in)

Serial: 10555

Provenance: Private collection, acquired in 1999

The cup of flaring profile has a low circular base. The interior wall is decorated with an ornamental band of stamped ovae, and a medallion (emblem) in high relief, also framed by similar band, is set on the bottom. The relief was molded and attached to the bottom before firing. It represents the bust of youthful Dionysos, with an ivy wreath atop his long curly hair and the animal skin tied around his neck. The black-glaze of terracotta surface has a metallic shine and imitates the luxury vessels made of gold and silver. As the wine was consumed, a banqueteer was enjoying the image of the benevolent god gradually coming into view.

The decoration of the deep cup of oval shape consists mainly of the three figural feet. They are shaped as theatrical masks; each represents a runaway slave, the most popular comedy personage, with characteristic bulging eyes, arching brows, pug nose, and wide-open thick lips (the so-called megaphone mask) marked by red color. As this cup was raised for consuming the wine, the neighbors of the drinker would see all three masks in full view.

The flaring cup fits perfectly inside the deep cup.