kaukalon

The term *kaukalon* (Ancient Greek: κάυκαλον) refers to a specific type of ancient Greek pottery vessel, primarily used for storing and transporting liquids such as olive oil, wine, or honey. The name derives from the Greek word *kauein* (καύειν), meaning "to burn," likely because the vessels were often used to carry flammable substances like oil, which could be ignited for lighting or ritual purposes.

Kaukalons were typically made of clay and had a distinctive shape: a narrow neck, a wide, rounded body, and a flat base, resembling a small amphora. They varied in size, ranging from small, portable jars to larger containers capable of holding several liters. The vessels were often decorated with simple geometric or figurative motifs, though elaborate designs were less common compared to other Greek pottery types like amphorae or kylixes.

These jars were widely used across the Greek world, particularly in the Archaic and Classical periods (roughly 8th to 4th centuries BCE). They played a practical role in daily life, trade, and commerce, as well as in religious and funerary contexts. For example, oil-filled kaukalons were sometimes placed in tombs as offerings to the deceased. The durability of clay made them suitable for long-distance transport, and their standardized forms facilitated trade and exchange within the Mediterranean basin.

Archaeological evidence suggests that kaukalons were produced in various Greek regions, including Attica, Corinth, and southern Italy. Fragments and intact examples have been recovered from settlements, sanctuaries, and shipwrecks, providing insights into their production techniques and cultural significance. While less studied than other Greek pottery types, the kaukalon remains an important artifact for understanding ancient Greek material culture and economic practices.