Obverse, Neoptolemos departingReverse, man and two women
The magnificent decoration here depicts the departure of a warrior for combat; every figure is identified by name. Kalliope, the woman with the oinochoe (jug) and phiale (libation bowl), and Antimachos, the man holding the shield and helmet, define the immediate subject. At the same time, the seated man, Antiochos, who clasps his son's hand, and the general tenor of the representation have direct counterparts on grave stelai. The funerary overtones are emphasized by the palmette on the neck—equivalent to the palmette finials on marble stelai.
