Kylix

[2] Kylikes were also popular exports, being the most common pottery import from Attica found in Etruscan settlements.

[3] The Greek word kylix, meaning 'cup', could refer to both a drinking vessel as well as the cup shape of a flower.

It is possibly related to the Latin word calix, also meaning 'cup', and may have originally been borrowed from a non-Indo-European language.

[6] However, the images in the tondo contained a variety of themes meant to surprise and amuse the party guest.

[8] At symposiums the process of mixing the wine was completed by a master of ceremonies then passed around by a young male slave.

One such type is the komast cup developed in Athens and inspired by Corinthian pottery; it is defined by a narrow lip and sharp offset paired with a short, flared stem.

This type is also defined with a decoration of drunken parties portrayed on the outside of the cup which grants this style its name.

Little-Master cups are named for the small details in their decorative elements, they are characterized by half globe basins and tall thin stems.

Black glaze type B kylikes appear to have been a popular export to Etruscan settlements and are not as commonly found in the Athens area, where it is believed they developed.

[13] At other times the meaning is less debated, as in some kylikes there are sexually explicit images portrayed[13] as were scenes of parties.

This may be due to smooth profiled kylikes being intended for more elite consumers who could pay for more carefully made and decorated pieces.

Kylikes that had been polished or had their pores filled with slip made better drinking vessels as they did not absorb the liquid they contained.