Tleson

Athenian, active 560-540 BCE

Geographic RegionGreece, Attica

BiographyTleson was an Athenian potter active in the mid-6th century BCE, known for his signature on numerous fine “Little Master” cups. The son of the potter Nearchos and likely brother of Ergoteles, Tleson operated a workshop that specialized in high-quality black-figure drinking vessels, particularly kylikes. Many of his pots bear the inscription “Tleson, son of Nearchos, made me” in Greek, demonstrating both pride in authorship and a high level of literacy. Tleson’s cups are often attributed to an associated painter called the “Tleson Painter,” though some scholars suggest Tleson may have painted them himself, following his father’s example. His workshop is notable for its careful execution, refined ornament, and participation in the development of the so-called Kleinmeister (“Little Master”) style, marked by small-scale, detailed figural scenes and prominent signatures. Tleson’s work was highly valued both in antiquity and today for its craftsmanship and historical importance.

Person TypeIndividual

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