The glass-workers of Alexandria procured earthenware vessels from all parts of the world, which they used as models for their cups. Even the great sculptor Lysippos did not disdain to employ his genius in the invention of a new kind of vase. Having made a collection of vessels of many various shapes, and diligently studied the whole, he hit upon a form entirely new, and presented the model to Cassander, who having just then founded the city of Cassandria, was ambitious of originating an invention of this kind. He was desirous, perhaps, of recommending by the elegance of his drinking-cups the Mendæan wine exported in great quantities from his city.[458] ----- Footnote 458: Athen. xi. 28. ----- There was a peculiar kind of cup called Grammateion, from the letters of gold chased upon its exterior.[459] Alexis mentions one of this sort in the following lines: A. But let me first describe the cup; ’twas round, Old, broken-eared, and precious small besides, Having indeed some letters on’t. B. Yes letters; Eleven, and all of gold, forming the name Of Saviour Zeus. A. Tush! no, some other god.[460] ----- Footnote 459: We find in Winkelmann, Hist. de l’Art t. i. p. 23, the representation of a glass grammateion, on which are the words: Bibe Vivas Multis Annis. See a detailed description of this vase by the Marquis Trivulsi, p. 46. Footnote 460: Athen. xi. 30. ----- A very handsome sort of cup was imported from Sidon. It had two handles, and was ornamented with small figures in relief. Drinking-vases were also formed from the large horns of the Molossian and Pœonian oxen; and these articles were commonly rimmed with silver or gold.[461] Small cups were made little account of. There was even one kind of bowl which, for its enormous capacity, was called the Elephant. A. If this hold not enough, see the boy comes Bearing the Elephant! B. Immortal gods! What thing is that? A. A double-fountained cup, The workmanship of Alcon; it contains Only three gallons.[462] ----- Footnote 461: Theopomp. ap. Athen. xi. 34. 51. Footnote 462: Athen. xi. 35. -----