The Greek symposion was divided into three phases. During the first, about which we know relatively little literarily, food was served; the actual communal drinking - nothing else means "sympósion" - begins with the second phase. First the Olympic gods, then the heroes and finally Zeus Sotér are given an offering from the first bowl of wine, then all the other participants in the feast. The saying on this kylix (drinking bowl), which greets the reveler with a hearty ΧΑΙΡΕ ΚΑΙ ΠΙΕΙ ΕΥ ("Be greeted and drink well"), also belongs in this context. (AVS)
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