Commentary Prepared by Dr. Julia Lenaghan, Ashmolean Museum

A 141 E
Satyr 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. The head and left leg of the left figure are chipped, the head of the right figure has mostly broken off.

Description:
Two figures are depicted here. To the left, shown frontally, is a powerfully muscled satyr in wide stance gazing down at the second figure. He has a panther skin draped over his left shoulder and arm. His right arm is raised, brandishing a weapon that continues behind the his head and is visible over his left shoulder. His head and right hand extend over the upper frame of the frieze. To the right a human figure is depicted on rocky ground. Facing to the left, the man has thrust his left arm and right leg forward against the satyr.

Discussion:
The scene depicts another satyr and pirate engaged in combat. The satyr, powerfully built, has raised his weapon in order to strike down on his enemy, while the pirate, already forced to the ground, is desperately trying to avert the blow with his outstretched arm and leg. The ease with which the satyrs overcome their human foes on the frieze vividly demonstrates Dionysos’ divine power. 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) 26-27 figs. 38-40 pls. 15b; 16 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.