The skyphos is one of the classic drinking vessels of ancient Greece. With its deep bowl and twin handles, it played a central role in wine rituals and everyday life.

Discover the skyphos and its role in ancient Greek culture. This article offers a clear overview of its form, meaning, and use — with many examples and visual comparisons of Greek drinking vessels from the Kunsthistorisches Museum Vienna.

What is skyphos?

The skyphos (Ancient Greek: σκύφος, pl. skyphoi) is a deep, two-handled drinking cup used for wine in Ancient Greece. Characterized by a low foot or no foot at all, the cup has either horizontal thumbhold handles or loop handles. Skyphoi appear from the Geometric period onward and were produced well into the Hellenistic era.

While the shape remained consistent over time, decorative styles evolved—ranging from black-figure and red-figure techniques to more elaborate figural scenes. Skyphoi were made from clay, silver, or gold, with rare examples like cameo glass known from Roman times.

Skyphoi served both practical and ceremonial functions, especially during symposia. A famous variation is the glaux (Greek for owl), which features one horizontal and one vertical handle.

Skyphoi, alongside other drinking vessels like Kylix, Kantharos, Phiale (Patera), and Rhyton, form a central part of Ancient Greek pottery typology.

What does the Greek word skyphos mean?

The Greek word σκύφος (skyphos) literally means “cup” or “drinking bowl”.

What is the plural form of skyphos?

The plural is skyphoi (σκύφοι in Greek).

What is skyphos used for?

Skyphoi were primarily used for drinking wine, especially during symposia (social drinking gatherings).

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