KRATER Meaning and
Definition
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Krater refers to a type of ancient Greek vessel used for mixing wine and water. It typically consists of a large bowl or basin with handles on the sides and a broad, low base. This pottery vessel was specifically designed for symposiums, which were social gatherings where men would drink, discuss philosophy, politics, and poetry, and engage in intellectual and social activities.
The krater's large size accommodated a substantial amount of liquid, allowing for the dilution of wine with water, which was a common practice in ancient Greece. The handles on the sides made it easier to transport, especially when the vessel was filled with liquid. Additionally, the wide base provided stability, preventing it from toppling over during the mixing process.
Kraters had a prominent role in ancient Greek art and culture. They were often adorned with intricate and elaborate designs, depicting various scenes from mythology, daily life, or commemorative events. These decorations were typically painted in black-figure or red-figure technique on the surface of the vessel, which added to the aesthetic appeal and artistic value of the krater.
Due to its significance in Greek society, the krater holds archaeological and historical importance. It provides insights into the social customs, dining practices, and artistic themes of the ancient Greeks. Today, kraters can be found in museums and are treasured artifacts that showcase the rich cultural heritage of ancient Greece.
Common Misspellings for KRATER
- krate
- crate
- crayter
- cryter
- jrater
- mrater
- kdater
- kfater
- ktater
- k5ater
- k4ater
- krzter
- krwter
- krqter
- krarer
- krafer
- krager
- kra6er
- kra5er
- kratwr
Etymology of KRATER
The word "krater" originated from the Greek language. Its etymology can be traced back to the Greek word "kratḗr" (κρατήρ), which means "mixing vessel" or "mixing bowl". In ancient Greece, a krater was a large open-top container used for mixing wine with water during symposia (drinking parties) and other social gatherings. The word eventually entered the English language, primarily as a term in archaeology and art history, to describe a specific type of ancient Greek vessel.
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