he ancient Greek drinking game of was immensely popular from the sixth to the fourth centuries BC. It involved holding a drinking cup with the index finger through one or bowl (or targets within the bowl). The thrown wine had to make a noise when it struck – both the wine and noise were called the You had to recline as you threw, leaning on one elbow. Players competed for rewards, and the game was usually played at Surviving cups show wear on the handles, telling us they have been used in games of The game is also depicted on many vases and mentioned in all manner of sources. The game probably began in a Doric speaking region, perhaps Sparta or Sicily, and spread throughout Greece and into Italy. It was possibly played by both men and women; we have depictions of playing (this may be humorous or scandalous). However, there are even depictions of the gods playing. There were different forms of the game involving different vessels and types of target. Each throw was preceded by a toast, usually dedicated to a male lover and perhaps asking a question – the answer was in some ways provided by the outcome of the throw. The game was, therefore, always playful and linked to various types of amorous pursuit. This isn’t to say the game wasn’t competitive or didn’t involve high stakes – Gambling has been linked to this type of game. eventually declined in popularity and was no longer played in the Roman period.
