Mittaristonsa

Mittaristonsa is a term that refers to a specific type of stoneware pottery, originating from the ancient city of Mitilene in modern-day Lesbos, Greece. The term is a combination of "Mittaris," the ancient name for Mitilene, and "tonsa," which means "pottery" in Greek. This type of pottery is characterized by its distinctive red slip, which is a result of the use of iron oxide in the glaze. The Mittaristonsa style emerged during the Hellenistic period, around the 3rd century BCE, and continued to be produced until the Roman period.

The pottery is typically characterized by its high-quality craftsmanship and intricate designs. The red slip gives the pottery a unique and vibrant appearance, which is often used to depict scenes from mythology, everyday life, and religious themes. The Mittaristonsa style is also known for its use of black-figure technique, where the figures are painted in black against a red background.

The production of Mittaristonsa pottery was a significant economic activity in Mitilene, contributing to the city's prosperity and cultural development. The pottery was not only used locally but also traded extensively throughout the Mediterranean region. Today, Mittaristonsa pottery is highly sought after by collectors and archaeologists due to its historical and artistic significance.