Terracotta kantharos (drinking cup)
Obverse and reverse, griffins attacking a deer
The subject of griffins attacking a deer has a long history and remained popular during the Hellenistic period throughout the Mediterranean area. It may be a symbol of the inevitability of death. The handles are ribbon-like and include so-called Herakles knots, a square knot symbolic of love and power in the ancient world. In the Roman Imperial period, Herakles knots were believed to heal wounds.
This image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.
This artwork is meant to be viewed from right to left. Scroll left to view more.
