Goblet-shaped Krater with the Lamentation of Patroclus

One of the most important pieces is a goblet-shaped krater attributed to the painter Kleophrades (500-490 BC), a refined example of red-figure pottery. The main scene depicts the mourning of Patroclus, lying on a kline, wrapped in a precious cloak and with his head reclined. Two comrades-in-arms support him, while two other warriors pay homage to the deceased. In the center, Achilles is depicted armed, ready to avenge his friend. On the opposite side of the vase are the funeral rites in honor of Patroclus, with dances and libations.

The episode depicted on the krater is crucial in the Trojan War. Patroclus, Achilles' closest friend, is killed by Hector while wearing the armor of Achilles, the Achaean hero. His death causes immense grief to Achilles, who decides to return to battle to avenge him. After obtaining new armor from Hephaestus, Achilles confronts Hector in a fatal duel before the walls of Troy. Hector, knowing he has no chance of escape, fights with honor but is defeated and killed. Achilles, blinded by rage, insults Hector's body by dragging it around the city walls. Only the intervention of King Priam, Hector's father, who begs Achilles to return his son's body, leads the Achaean hero to recognize his enemy's grief and grant him a funeral.