Sand, Sea, and a Slower Wheel

Even Roman emperors struggled to relax during the summer holidays. Marcus Aurelius famously couldn’t stop working during a seaside break in Alsium—so much so that his friends teased him for declaring war on “play, relaxation, good living, and pleasure.”

Here at ATTIC BLACK, we try to remember that even the wheel needs a break.

This August, our workshop will be closed for just two weeks, from August 9 to 24. During the first and last weeks of the month, we’ll be operating with reduced personnel—half-resting, half-working, and hopefully doing better than poor Marcus.

In ancient times, coastal retreats, hot baths, and even sand wrestling were part of summer therapy. Today, we settle for books, sea views, or just the sound of a quiet studio.

We wish you a refreshing break wherever you are—and if you’re planning a visit, please check our schedule in advance, as replies and shipments may be slightly delayed during this time.

Happy holidays from Athens!

Red-figure kylix boy fishing (Boston_MFA_01.8024) - detail. The kylix is attributed to the Ambrosios Painter and is an example of Attic red-figure pottery, dating back to around 510-500 BC.