Barrel-shaped vases were characteristic creations of Cypriot potters of the Archaic period. They are considered to be products of workshops in the regions of Salamis and Kition, or in northeastern Cyprus (Karpasia Peninsula). The illustrated example is decorated in the so-called Bichrome Style with concentric circles, a popular motif in Cypro- Archaic pottery. Barrel-shaped vases were made in various sizes. The smallest examples are the size of lekythoi and were obviously used as perfume flasks. The larger varieties, such as the one illustrated here, were most probably for storing and transporting liquids, such as wine and olive oil. Because these vases are usually found in graves, it is surmised that their contents also served as offerings to the dead.