Campanian Drinking Cup With Greek Inscription - 4th-3rd Century Bc, Archaeology

Elegant Campanian ceramic drinking cup, dated to the Hellenistic period (4th-3rd century B.C.), from Magna Graecia.

This emblematic production from the workshops of southern Italy is distinguished by its deep, glossy black glaze, with subtle metallescent highlights. The paste, visible on the inside, has an orange-yellow hue characteristic of these antique ceramics.

A particularly striking feature of this production is its deep, glossy black glaze, with subtle metallescent reflections.

A particularly remarkable feature, the body bears a graffitied inscription composed of four Greek letters: πιθι (pithi), meaning "drink!", an imperative form of the verb to drink. This rare detail lends the object a lively, direct dimension, in keeping with its use.

This type of single-handled cup is part of the Greek banquet (symposion), a central moment in ancient social life where the sharing of wine and the spoken word occupied an essential place.

The example presented comes from the workshop of sculptor Siméon Foucault (1884-1923), winner of the Prix de Rome in 1912. A resident at the Villa Médicis between 1913 and 1914, it is likely that this piece was brought back from Italy on this occasion, before joining his studio.

The piece is in good condition.

Good overall condition, to note: handle missing. Nice patina, glaze well preserved and bright.

Dimensions: