Column Krater with a Symposium Scene

Here, a "symposium," or men's drinking party, is under way. Entertainment at such events was provided by "hetairai," or female prostitutes, who also served as musicians and dancers. Reclining on dining couches are two bearded men and an unbearded youth, who tilts his head back to listen to the girl before him playing the double flutes. On the other side of the vessel, three young men are engaged in conversation. Kraters such as this one were used for mixing wine and water, as Greek and Roman authors write that drinking undiluted wine was considered barbaric and uncouth.

Provenance

Provenance (from the French provenir, 'to come from/forth') is the chronology of the ownership, custody, or location of a historical object. Learn more about provenance at the Walters.

[Excavated, "Foiano Tomb Two" at Foiano della Chiana, Tuscany, 1879]; Alfonso del Soldato, 1879, by excavation. Don Marcello Massarenti Collection, Rome [date and mode of acquisition unknown] [cat. no. 176]; Henry Walters, Baltimore, 1902; Walters Art Museum, 1931, by bequest.