Description
A beaker or drinking-cup, which was used by the Greeks in very early times. The same term was used to designate the tops of a ship, that is, the structure surrounding the mast immediately above the yard, into which the mariners ascended in order to manage the sail. This was probably called carchesium on account of its resemblance in form to the cup of that name. The ceruchi, or other tackle, may have been fastened to its lateral projections, which corresponded to the handles of the cup.
