THE AMPHORAE ARE RECONSTRUCTED
Construction of the amphorae, which were placed on Kyrenia II on its experimental voyages, presented several problems. The large size and shape of the amphorae required considerable time and high costs. As Sophocles Mourides, an archaeologist-geologist who specializes in ceramics and graphic arts, explained, today it would take a craftsman 3-4 days to fashion an amphora on the wheel.
The mould had to be perfect so as to produce amphorae that were identical with those of ancient times. A special wooden model was first made on the basis of a detailed diagram of the ancient amphora. The final model was then meticulously made from this. After this suitable clay had to be obtained and such processed clay could not be found in Cyprus. Finding it and processing it would, anyway, incur further costs, so special clay was imported from Salonica, which, mixed with Cyprus clay, procured the final blend.
Everything had to be done to perfection so as to obtain the right shape, durability and even the right colour of the pot. The time the fluid clay mixture would remain in the mould had to be precisely calculated too for, if it was excessive, the thickness of the amphora would increase.
The amphora's handles were cast in different moulds and were added to the main pot when the clay had become sufficiently elastic.
When the moulds were removed, it took 2-3 days for an amphora to dry. Before drying completely, each amphora was numbered and sealed. The craftsman would even inscribe his name, in the manner of ancient artisans. Finally, the amphora was scraped, cleaned and baked in the oven.
"The making of the amphorae was a prestigious challenge for me. I determined that I had the ability and I felt that it was my duty to do it, whatever the cost in terms of money or labour. I thought that, above all, the amphorae had to be made in order to consummate 'Kyrenia II" as a national idea and symbol. And the satisfaction you get from contributing something that will remain for ever is not to be frowned upon.
Besides, I saw this from an artistic point of view because it is wonderful to feel that youˇ are carrying on something that was begun by an ancient artist 2.300 years ago. "
An account by SOPHOCLES MOURIDES
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Monday, May 27, 1996 11:59:56 PM