A Shape for Few Seasons: The Rapid Appearance and Disappearance of the Mainland Greek Panel Cup

by Jeremy B. Rutter and Michael Lindblom

Hesperia, Volume 91, Issue 4
Page(s): 571-648
Stable URL: https://muse.jhu.edu/article/873699
Year: 2022
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ABSTRACT:

The circulation of the panel cup on the Greek mainland beginning in Middle Helladic III is explored from various perspectives. The shape flourished for less than a century, principally in the northeast Peloponnese, in both funerary and domestic contexts. The shape was produced in two sizes. Pattern-painted examples exhibit remarkable variation, suggestive of intentional individualization. Although the form is originally Cycladic, its mainland imitation was inspired by contemporary Aiginetan products. Funerary contexts in the Argolid suggest a connection between decorated panel cups, elite male burials, and high-profile drinking events. After its brief floruit, the panel cup appears to have been replaced by identical or functionally related shapes made in precious metals.