CMNH 4313
Cyprus
Early Bronze Age
Red polished ware was common in early bronze age Cyprus [2700-1900 BCE] and earns its namesake from its slip, which transforms into a copper color when fired. This pottery type was often engraved, though this piece is plain. Due to the lower capabilities of the period, firing temperatures could not reach very high, making this pottery fairly brittle. The round bottom suggests that this cup was not used for consumption. Instead, it may have been used for portioning or the pouring of libations.
To learn more about the art and culture of ancient Cyprus:
Hemingway, Colette, and Seán Hemingway. “Prehistoric Cypriot Art and Culture.” Metropolitan Museum of Art, 2004. [http://www.metmuseum.org/toah/hd/pcyp/hd_pcyp.htm]
Image by Jacob Kordeleski, CMNH Dept of Archaeology // Hawken School
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