Rhyton; stirrup cup

Dateca. 600 BC

MediumEarthenware, redware

DimensionsOL: 8 1/4"; H(w/ handle): 4 1/2"

Credit LineGift of Harry H. and Alma Louise Coon

Object number1997-183

DescriptionRhyton or stirrup cup molded in the shape of a fox's head with an elongated neck extending at an angle from behind the ears to a flared rim. A handle extends from the lower part of the head and is attached under the rim. The neck and rim are decorated with a reddish glaze and the head is a dark brown.
Label TextStirrup cups are an English adaptation of the ancient Rhyton, a pottery cup in the form of a head, that was used in Greece, Italy, and Asia Minor. Stirrup cups were usually in the shape of the head of a fox or hound, but they are also found in the form of hares, stags, cocks, bears, trout, and other dogs. These cups were traditionally used for toasts to the hunt when the mounted riders were about to depart and were held inverted while in use, therefore not requiring a handle or foot. Earthenware stirrup cups were made in Staffordshire after ca. 1765 and porcelain cups after 1770.