The Ancient Greek Boy and his Yo-Yo

[Judi Lynn]

By Philip Chrysopoulos - Apr 8, 2018



The very first depiction of a yo-yo is to be found on an ancient Greek vase from the 5th century BC, where a boy can be seen playing with the timeless toy.

The yo-yo is the second-oldest known toy after dolls, according to historians. Its origins are placed in China, after a toy known as the diabolo. From China, the yo-yo travelled to ancient Greece and the Philippines. Through time it became popular all over the world.

The yo-yo was made of wood, metal or clay. It is believed that in ancient Greek society the toy was used as an offering to the gods. Some also believe that it was used as a coming-of-age ritual for boys.

The vase depicting the boy playing with the yo-yo, dated from 440 BC, is exhibited at the National Archaeological Museum of Athens, along with fragments of a small clay disc, parts of the popular toy.

More:
http://greece.greekreporter.com/2018/04/08/the-ancient-greek-boy-and-his-yo-yo/

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