Kalos inscription

A kalos inscription is a marking on ancient Greek pottery. They were prevalent during the Classical period (550 to 450 BC). Kalos (καλός) means "beautiful", and in these inscriptions it had an erotic meaning. The word kalos was followed by the beloved's name—usually a youth, but sometimes a girl or woman working as a prostitute. These inscriptions are usually found on the drinking cups used during a drinking party. They were probably declarations of love. They are sometimes found as graffiti on walls.

Youth holding a discus at the palaestra. Near him, a pick to prepare the landing ground for the long jump, and a pair of dumbbells used to maintain balance during the jump. (Interior of an Attic red-figure kylix, ca. 510–500 BC. Kalos inscription.)

Other websites

• Media related to Kalos inscriptions at Wikimedia Commons