White painted mug with dots

Mug from Phylakopi II, Melos (ca. 2000–1600 BCE)

This Middle Cycladic mug from Melos (National Archaeological Museum, Athens) is decorated with playful white dots on a dark background—an eye-catching, abstract design that brings life to a simple form. It pairs with another mug from the same period, painted with a bold black bird on a white surface.

Together, these two mugs from Phylakopi show the range of Cycladic pottery—from lively pattern to stylized figure. They reflect the creativity of a community that turned everyday objects into expressions of style. In the Bronze Age, Phylakopi was a thriving Aegean center, known for its ceramics, wall paintings, and deep connection to the natural world.

Dimensions H: 8,5 cm, Rim D: 11,0 cm, Max L : 13,5 cm