Cast Gallery catalogue number: A141d
A pirate forced to the ground and tied up by a satyr.
- Plaster cast: Height: 27cm.
- Copy of part of a marble frieze.
- The frieze:
- is from the Lysikrates Monument in Athens.
- was made about 330 BC.
- is still in situ.
Detailed Record
Commentary Prepared by Dr. Julia Lenaghan, Ashmolean Museum
A 141 D
Satyrs and Pirate; 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 and abraded in places. The heads of both figures are chipped on top.
Description:Depicted are two figures in left profile, fighting on rocky ground. To the left a human figure is kneeling on the ground, his head facing outwards and resting on the ground. His arms are torn backwards by a satyr who leans over the man, his left knee pressed against his enemy’s back. The satyr is bearded and has a short round nose.
Discussion:This is the first scene to the right of Dionysos depicting an actual fight. It shows a satyr who has overpowered a pirate and is tying him up, corresponding to a similar scene to the left of the god (A 141p).
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) 25-26 figs. 35-37 pl. 15a
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.
