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Hydria
Type of Greek pottery used for carrying water / From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
For the moth genus, see Hydria (moth). For the town of ancient Paros, see Hydria (Paros).
"Kalpis" redirects here. Not to be confused with Calpis.
The hydria (Greek: ὑδρία; pl.: hydriai) is a form of Greek pottery from between the late Geometric period (7th century BC) and the Hellenistic period (3rd century BC).[1] The etymology of the word hydria was first noted when it was stamped on a hydria itself, its direct translation meaning 'jug'.[2]
Quick Facts Material, Size ...
Hydria | |
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![]() A hydria, c. 470–450 BC | |
Material | Ceramic and bronze |
Size | Medium-volume container varying from 25cm to 50 cm, able to be carried by one or more people. |
Writing | Painters would sometimes inscribe their name onto the hydria. |
Symbols | Mythological stories were often painted onto the hydria, as well as scenes of daily life, such as the collection of water. |
Created | Geometric period, archaic period, classical period Hellenistic period |
Discovered | 19th century |
Culture | Ancient Greek |
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It is a type of water-carrying vessel, but it had many other purposes.[1] As time progressed the hydria developed into many forms, some of which were smaller or of a different material. These variants were decorated with detailed figures to represent Greek mythological stories, as well as scenes of daily life, providing extensive insight into Ancient Greek culture and society.