Commentary Prepared by Dr. Julia Lenaghan, Ashmolean Museum

A 141 B
Two Satyrs; Lysikrates Monument

Marble (Pentelic)
Frieze
H 25.4 cm
Greece, Athens, in situ
After 335/34 BC; Late Classical

Preservation:
The surface of the relief is heavily worn with the faces of both figures almost obliterated. Their right legs are chipped.

Description:
The relief shows two satyrs and a large calyx krater on a square base. To the left, one of the satyrs is sitting on a low rock. He is facing to the right, clutching his left knee with both hands. His torso is shown in three-quarter profile, the neck frontally. The head was probably turned slightly back. Further to the right is a second satyr moving towards the krater. His body is slightly twisted as he turns to the front. His right arm is raised, holding a jug, the left stretched forward towards the krater with a cup. Both satyrs have well defined muscles and bushy tails.

Discussion:
The two satyrs and the krater correspond to a similar group to the left of Dionysos (A 141q/r). Like his equivalent on the other side, the first satyr has turned back to face the god, while the second is about to pour wine from the krater. They are not affected by the fight ensuing further beyond. For a full discussion of the monument see A 141a.

Bibliography:
H. F. de Cou, "The Frieze of the Choregic Monument of Lysicrates at Athens." (AJA 8 1893) 42-55 Discusses earlier studies and drawings of the monument and the composition of the frieze.
W. Erhardt, "Der Fries des Lysikratesmonuments" (Antike Plastik 22 1993) 20-24 figs. 27-31 pls. 13a-b The most thorough discussion of the frieze so far. Excellent photographs of the original frieze, as well as documentation of early drawings and casts documenting a much better state of preservation. Extensive bibliography.