From the small base the sides of this cup expand outwards rapidly, then gradually curve upwards to the wide everted rim. The result is the rim extends slightly beyond the...
From the small base the sides of this cup expand outwards rapidly, then gradually curve upwards to the wide everted rim. The result is the rim extends slightly beyond the body of the cup, which tends to focus more attention on the gracefully flowing sides. A double incised line under the rim is the sole ornamentation. The handle is in the form of a lithe young boy, most likely Cupid, whose wings are spread just under the lip. His body curves beautifully outward as his feet touch the head of a bearded man who is probably Dionysus, the god of wine. These two deities, reigning over wine and love, are particularly appropriate on a drinking cup; and add considerable charm to this handsome vessel.