Klazomenian sarcophagi

Added to the basin-like main sarcophagus is a rectangular broad frame, often covered with a white slip and then painted.

Due to the relatively complex and time-consuming method of manufacture, it is unlikely that the sarcophagi were only ordered after the death of their intended occupants.

The deceased was carried to the cemetery in a procession and then placed in his or her sarcophagus, which had already been inserted into the ground up to the height of its rim.

The workshops that produced such objects were probably mainly specialised in making clay decorative elements for architecture.

The headpieces, which were higher, often received scenes of combat, hunting and athletic contests, executed in the black-figure technique.

The basins were often smashed after discovery, as only the painted parts were considered of interest, and transport would be facilitated by reducing the object's weight.