Kyathos facts for kids
A Kyathos (say "KY-ath-os") is a special type of ancient Greek pot. It looks a bit like a teacup, but it's larger and has a very tall, looping handle. Think of it as a fancy ladle or dipper from long ago! These pots were often beautifully painted by ancient Greek artists.
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What is a Kyathos?
A kyathos is a unique kind of ancient Greek pottery. It has a round bowl that gets a little narrower towards the bottom. Its most noticeable feature is a single, long, flat handle that loops high above the rim. People today often compare it to a modern ladle or a large dipper.
What Was It Used For?
The main job of a kyathos was to scoop liquids. Ancient Greeks often mixed their wine with water in a large bowl called a Krater. The kyathos was perfect for dipping this diluted wine out of the krater and pouring it into drinking cups. It was a useful tool for parties and gatherings where people shared drinks.
How Was It Made?
Like most ancient Greek pottery, the kyathos was made from clay. Potters would shape the clay on a potter's wheel to create the bowl. The tall, looping handle would then be carefully added by hand. After shaping, the kyathos would be decorated, often with detailed scenes or patterns, and then fired in a hot oven (kiln) to make it hard and durable.
Where Can You See Them Today?
Many kyathoi have survived through thousands of years. Today, you can find these ancient pots in museums around the world. They are important pieces of history that help us understand daily life and art in ancient Greece. When you see one, you're looking at a tool that was used by people long, long ago!
See also
In Spanish: Cíato para niños
