Pelike facts for kids

A pelike (pronounced "PELL-ih-kee") was a special type of ceramic container from ancient Greece. It was a bit like an amphora, which was another common type of pot.

Pelikes were known for their unique shape. They had two handles that stood straight up on the sides, reaching to the top edge of the pot's body. They also had a narrow neck, a wide, flared mouth, and a round, sagging belly.

Unlike many amphorae, which often had pointed bottoms, a pelike always had a flat, wide base. This meant it could stand up on its own without needing a special stand.

These pots were often beautifully painted, usually with detailed scenes showing people. The pelike shape first appeared around the end of the 6th century BCE (which means "Before Common Era") and continued to be used until the 4th century BCE.

We don't know for sure what pelikes were used for. However, many experts who study ancient Greece believe they were used to hold wine. They think this because of the pot's shape, where they have been found, and the kinds of pictures painted on them.

What Was a Pelike?

A pelike was a kind of pottery made by ancient Greeks. It was a single piece of clay, shaped into a large jar. Think of it as a fancy jug or vase from a very long time ago. It was designed to hold liquids, though its exact purpose is still a bit of a mystery!

How Was It Different from Other Pots?

Ancient Greece had many different types of pots, each with its own name and use. The pelike was special because of its rounded, "sagging" body and its flat bottom. This flat base was a big difference from many other Greek pots, like some amphorae, which had pointy bottoms and needed to be placed in the ground or on a stand.

The Look of a Pelike

Pelikes had a very specific design. They were usually quite large, with a wide, round body that looked a bit like a big, plump belly.

Handles and Mouth

Each pelike had two handles. These handles were placed on the sides and went straight up, almost like ears. The top of the pot had a narrow neck and then a wide, flared opening, like a trumpet. This wide mouth would have made it easy to pour liquids in or out.

Artwork and Decorations

Many pelikes were decorated with amazing paintings. These weren't just simple patterns; they often showed detailed scenes. Most of the time, these pictures featured people, perhaps doing everyday activities, celebrating, or even showing stories from Greek myths. The artists used special techniques to paint these scenes, often in red or black figures on the pot's surface.

When Were Pelikes Used?

The pelike was a popular shape for about two centuries in ancient Greece. It first appeared around 500 BCE. This was a time when Greek art and culture were really developing.

A Long History

The use of pelikes continued through the 5th century BCE and into the 4th century BCE. This means they were around during some very important periods in Greek history, including the time of famous philosophers like Socrates and Plato. By the end of the 4th century BCE, the shape became less common.

What Was Its Purpose?

While we know what a pelike looked like and when it was used, its main purpose isn't perfectly clear. Experts have some good ideas, though!

A Container for Wine?

Many historians and archaeologists believe that pelikes were used to store or serve wine. This idea comes from a few clues:

• Shape: Its large, rounded body is good for holding liquids.
• Discovery Locations: Pelikes have been found in places where wine would have been consumed or stored.
• Decorations: Sometimes, the paintings on pelikes show scenes related to drinking or feasts, which often involved wine.

So, while we can't be 100% sure, it's very likely that these beautiful pots played a part in the ancient Greek tradition of enjoying wine.

See also

In Spanish: Pélice para niños