Detail from a Boeotian Terracotta Skyphos in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, February 2008

Terracotta skyphos (deep drinking cup)
Greek, Boeotian, black-figure, mid-4th century BC
Closely related to the Vine Tendril Group
Obverse: reclining man and three crones (the Judgment of Paris?)
Reverse: ogress pursuing three pygmies

Accession # 1971.11.1

The Kabirion is a sanctuary on the outskirts of Thebes in Boeotia dedicated to the Kabiroi, deities associated with fertility and the sea. Their cult included mysteries whose introduction is ascribed to the goddess Demeter. A distinctive variety of pottery, known as Cabiric vases, was produced from the late fifth through the late fourth century BC. This example is characteristic in shape, subject, and technique.

Such works may reflect farces performed in conjunction with the mysteries. They are contemporary with representations with Middle Comedy and the phylax vases.

Text from the Metropolitan Museum of Art label.