In this mythical representation Hephaestus is accompanied by a Dionysian procession, complete with a mule, satyrs and several gods. Calyx kraters could hold any variety of themes, this one in particular shows Hephaestus’ return to Olympus in a highly narrative fashion. This is one way to identify an ancient artist, through their style of iconography and depiction of narratives. The Cleophrades Painter is possibly the first to portray a figural narrative that continues around the vase uninterrupted.

The Greeks are known for their interest in the human body and motion and its representation in sculpture, here we see this fascination in painting. He is credited with exceptional drawing skills that gave a sculptural illusion to his figures. The Cleophrades Painter was prolific in Attic pottery and signed a number of his works. Red figure is a more detail oriented style then black figure, where the original red clay shows through and the details are added in black glaze. This prominent pottery medium was developed in Athens, though most came from the Region of Attica. The red figure style is on a black background and replaced the earlier black figure style entirely. It measures 42 centimeters in height and 49 in diameter. The body of the vessel is wide and cylindrical with a slight flair at the top and a lip. The calyx krater has a wide foot, a short stem, and cupped body with two low rounded handles extending to the sides. This Attic is generously adorned with figures encircling the ceramic that tells a story of a procession.

A particularly beautiful example is the early 5th century BCE Attic red figure calyx krater by the Cleophrades Painter, currently located at the Louvre. The red figure calyx krater is representation of4th and 5th century BCE Greek vessels.

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