| The purpose of this examination of an Attic kylix painted in the Manner of the Lysippides Painter is to present a detailed analysis of an ancient Greek vase, and moreover, to investigate the meaning and function of two of its decorative motifs: the eye scheme and the gorgoneion. Both traditional and revisionist interpretations and approaches are discussed in order to better understand this distinctive imagery.; This iconological study looks at the relationship between symbolism and function, and how each was influenced by the environment for which this cup was made, the Archaic period symposion. Recent scholarship suggests that specific sympotic themes, practices, and stylistic conceits are expressed in vase painting. The kylix exemplifies this, particularly in the manner in which it sets up visual puns and metaphorical associations. The resulting analyses present a picture of a multifunctional, multivalent wine cup that both reflected and enhanced the sympotic experience. |
