Page 42 - Resources

Greek Vase Shapes

Scholars today classify ancient Greek vases by shape, of which there are about 100 different

types, many with several sub-types. Here are some examples of the major types arranged by
predominant (but not exclusive) function.

Vases used for storing and transporting wine and foodstuffs

Amphora Stamnos

The amphora was a two-handled vase used for Stamnos is probably another name for a
storage and transport. large amphora.

.

Vases used for mixing and cooling wine

Psykter

Krater The word psykter means "cooler," and it was
used for cooling wine:
The word krater means "mixing-bowl," and the the psykter was placed in a krater which had
vase was used for mixing wine with water.
(The Greeks did not drink their wine "neat".) been filled with cooled water, and the cooling
liquid would surround the psykter and cool the

wine.

(Greek Grandeur, Hebrew Heart) 40