Greek Skyphos With Depiction of a Hoop Roller
source: Wikimedia Commons
author: Bibi Saint-Pol
Description
The bottom of a black Greek skyphos bears an illustration of a man running with a hoop. He holds the hoop and an elater (stick) in his right hand and a roe deer leg in his left. A small dog runs by his side. An inscription to the left of the man reads ΚΑΛΟΣ, which can be translated as “beautiful,” “good,” or “noble.”
Date
Artifact: c. 470 BC
Photo: February 2007
Information
This Greek skyphos depicts Greco-Roman hoop rolling, a popular activity among the ancient Greeks and Romans. The game was practiced by young an old alike, and was even encouraged in the gymnasium, an institution restricted to men 18 years and older. It was not, however, a competitive sport, nor was it featured in any of the Panhellenic games (such as the Olympic Games).
Related Articles
Greco-Roman Hoop Rolling | Greek Gymnasium | Ancient Olympic Games | Panhellenic Games
König, J. (2005). Athletics and literature in the Roman empire. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.
Smith, W., Wayte, W., & Marindin, G. E. (1890). A dictionary of Greek and Roman antiquities. London: J. Murray.