a "kalos" inscription is a marking on ancient greek pottery. they were prevalent during the classical period (550 to 450 bc). "kalos" (καλός) means "beautiful", and in these inscriptions it had an erotic meaning. the word kalos was followed by the beloved's nameusually a youth, but sometimes a girl or woman working as a prostitute. these inscriptions are usually found on the drinking cups used during a drinking party. they were probably declarations of love. they are sometimes found as graffiti on walls.