[1] The amphora's decoration reflects the pottery of the Orientalizing period (c. 710–600 BCE),[2] a style in which human and animal figures depict mythological scenes.

The size and shape of the amphora, as well as the fact that it is highly decorated, indicate that it was created as a tomb marker or monument.

However, the remains of a 10–12-year-old boy were found inside the amphora,[3] meaning that it was ultimately used as an urn.

[3] The Eleusis amphora shows some of the earliest artistic depictions of Greek mythology.

On the neck of the vase, the figures depict Odysseus and his men blinding the cyclops Polyphemus.