Barrel-shaped jug

Barrel-shaped vases occur throughout the Archaic period and are characteristic creations of Cypriot pottery. They are considered to be products of workshops in the region of Salamis and of Kition, or in northeastern Cyprus (Karpass Peninsula). This example is decorated in the "Bichrome Style" with concentric circles, the hallmark of Cypriot pottery in the Archaic period.Barrel-shaped vases were made in a wide range of sizes. The smallest examples are the size of lekythoi and were obviously used as perfume flasks. The larger varieties, such as the one illustrated, were most probably for storing and transporting liquids, such as wine and olive oil. Because these vases are usually found in graves, it is surmised that their contents also served as offerings to the dead.