Canosan-style Kantharos with Geometric Motifs

Towards the end of the second millennium B.C.E., potters from southern Italy started to produce vessels inspired by Mycenaean ceramics imported from Greece. They were usually decorated with brown geometric motifs on a light background. Regional differences emerged towards the end of the ninth century B.C.E. and gave rise to distinct ethnic styles. This Daunian kantharos, a drinking cup, is typical of the high-quality vessels produced in the region of Canosa. These prestige items were exported throughout southern Italy and even across the Adriatic Sea.