Why were Greek pots used?

Storing and transporting food and liquids: Greek pottery was widely used for storing and transporting food items such as grain, oil, wine, honey, and water. The different shapes of pots were designed for specific purposes, such as amphorae for wine, hydriae for water, and lekythoi for oil.

Cooking: Some Greek pots were used for cooking. For instance, cooking pots (chytrai) had rounded bottoms that allowed even heat distribution, while frying pans (teganai) had shallow, flat shapes for frying food.

Serving food and drink: Greek pottery played an important role in dining. Plates, bowls, and cups were used for serving and consuming food and beverages during meals and symposia (drinking parties).

Religious ceremonies and rituals: Greek pots were often used in religious ceremonies and rituals. They were used to store and pour libations (offerings of wine or oil) to the gods, as well as to contain sacred objects such as ashes and bones.

Decoration: Greek pottery was also valued for its artistic and decorative qualities. Many pots were elaborately decorated with painted scenes depicting mythological stories, everyday life, and religious rituals. These painted pots served as decorative objects in homes and temples, and were often displayed as works of art.

Overall, Greek pots had a wide range of practical and symbolic functions in ancient Greek society, including storing, transporting, serving, cooking, religious rituals, and decoration.