Terracotta hydria: kalpis (water jar)

Kalpis is an ancient Greek pottery vessel used for holding liquids. It has a distinctive shape, with a narrow neck and a bulbous body, and often features decorative handles on either side. Kalpides (plural of kalpis) were commonly used to store and serve water, wine, or other liquids in both everyday and ceremonial contexts. They were made from a variety of materials including terracotta, bronze, and silver, and were often decorated with intricate designs or scenes from Greek mythology. The kalpis is one of many types of ancient Greek pottery vessels that provide insight into the artistic, cultural, and practical aspects of daily life in ancient Greece.