Cypro-Classical Coarse Ware Cooking Pot (Chytra)

Cypro-Classical II Period, c. 400–323 BC, Republic of Cyprus

This exquisite wheel-made cooking pot, or chytra, is a remarkable example of Cypriot Coarse Ware pottery from the Cypro-Classical II period. It features a beautifully crafted globular body with a flat bottom, surmounted by an everted rim. A single strap handle elegantly connects the rim to the vessel's rounded waist. Made of coarse red clay mixed with white grits, the piece exudes a rustic charm indicative of its utilitarian purpose while reflecting the artistic traditions of ancient Cyprus.

The pottery of ancient Cyprus, which dates back to the Neolithic period, is renowned for its diversity and adaptability, showcasing connections with various Mediterranean cultures. During the Cypro-Classical period, these cultural exchanges are evident in the continuation and refinement of stylistic trends from the preceding Cypro-Archaic II period. Fine ware ceramics, such as Plain White pottery, gained popularity during this time, particularly in the form of jug-like vessels and handle-less bowls inspired by Levantine shapes.

Cyprus' strategic location in the northeastern Mediterranean made it a vital hub in ancient trade networks. Positioned at the crossroads of the Aegean, Anatolia, the Levant, and Egypt, the island played a pivotal role in the exchange of goods, ideas, and artistic influences. During the Classical period, Cyprus was under Persian rule but maintained its cultural identity through its unique ceramic traditions. The island experienced a brief period of autonomy under Alexander the Great, who granted greater independence to Cypriot city-states. Following his death in 323 BC, Cyprus became part of the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt, ushering in a new era of Hellenistic influence.

This chytra is more than a utilitarian artifact; it embodies the rich history and cultural significance of ancient Cyprus, offering a tangible link to the island's role as a bridge between civilizations. A piece like this would make an outstanding addition to any collection of ancient Mediterranean artifacts, reflecting the artistry and heritage of a pivotal era in Cypriot history.

Excellent condition. Intact. No chips, cracks or fractures. Delcate rootmarks and earthen patina. Museum number: S.R: 7020/75. Size approx. 12,7cm x 16,0cm x 14,5cm. 

NB! Comes with original documents, including Licence to Export Antiquities No. 007268, issued under Antiquities Law, Cap. 43, Form Antiq. 1. Republic of Cyprus, Department of Antiquities, dated and signed 26. April 1979, Director of Antiquities.

Provenance: 

Cyprus Archaeological Museum, Nicosia, Cyprus.

acquired from the above, 1979

with danish private collection

For a similar examples see:

Cooking-pot, The British Museum, Accession Number: 1864,1007.1937 (https://www.britishmuseum.org/collection/object/G_1864-1007-1937)

Chytra: miniature cooking pot, Museum of Fine Arts Boston, Accession Number: 81.175 (https://collections.mfa.org/objects/198988)

Miniature chytra, The Acropolis Museum, Accession Number: ΝΜΑ 409 (https://theacropolismuseum.gr/en/miniature-chytra-0)

References and further reading:

Pottery of Geometric, Archaic and Classical periods in Cyprus,  Anna, P. Georgiadou, Kyprios Character. History, Archaeology & Numismatics of Ancient Cyprus (kyprioscharacter.eie.gr/en/t/A0)

Pottery Types, Cypro-Geometric to Cypro-Classical, Einar Gjerstad, Opuscula Atheniensia. 7 (7): pp. 105–122, 1960.

Handbook of the Cesnola Collection of Antiquities from Cyprus, John L. Myres, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, 1914.

Swedish Cyprus Expedition IV, 2. The Cypro-geometric, Cypro-archaic and Cypro-classical Periods, Einar Gjerstad, Stockholm: Swedish Cyprus Expedition, 1948.