Amphoras and the Ancient Wine Trade

Agora Picture Books

by Virginia R. Grace

Although this booklet is based on broken pottery found during the excavation of the Agora, the author ranges far beyond the confines of Athens in her discussion of the purpose and significance of different amphora types. Amphoras were used in the ancient world to transport various different types of products, including wine and oil. The author shows how chronological variations in shape and the geographical clues offered by stamped handles make amphoras a fascinating source of economic information. The booklet illustrates many different forms of amphora, all set into context by the well-written text.

Genres: History

32 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1979

Reviews

[Ethan Hulbert · Rating 5 out of 5]

A short little book, about 30ish pages plus notes, but a very efficiently informative and interesting one. A great history, the word's meaning and roots, identifying amphoras from different regions and in art, info on how they were used, stood up, leaned, poured... old maps with historic place names stretched across the pages. Tons of art and photos. This is great!! What a valuable little publication.