Official Athenian terracotta dry measure with inscription

Agora Museum, Athens, Greece

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Material: Terracotta (fired clay)
Date range: 450-425 BC
Origin: Ancient Agora, Athens, Greece

This official dry measure was used to regulate grain and goods in the Athenian Agora through state-approved standards. The inscription meaning “official” (demosion) shows it was certified by civic authorities, linking everyday trade to ideas of justice protected by Athena, the city’s patron goddess.

Ribbed bands around the rim and base decorate the vessel while also marking its standardized form. These repeating lines visually emphasize control and consistency, while the incised Greek letters identify the measure as officially approved and possibly record its capacity or certifying authority.

Used in the Agora, the vessel played a role in a system where accurate measurement was seen as both a legal and religious duty. By using such measures, merchants took part in commerce understood to be overseen by both civic law and divine order.

Museum label reference:

1. Cylindrical terracotta dry measure with the inscription "official" 450-425 B.C.

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Large cylindrical terracotta dry measure vessel with incised Greek letters and horizontal ribbed bands marking official standard capaci

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Source:  Athens, Greece