Analysis of the Vessels from the Panagyurishte Treasure (Part Three)
In the third part of the Analysis of the Vessels from the Panagyurishte Treasure, we will examine in detail the amphora-rhyton and the phiale. We will focus on their form, decoration, and symbolism, exploring how these unique artifacts reflect the cultural and religious beliefs of the Thracians.
Amphora-Rhyton
The amphora is the largest and most impressive vessel in this remarkable find. Like the other vessels, it has a rim around the opening, decorated with relief pearls on the upper side and oval elements below. A band of oval forms separates its smooth neck from the body, as in the fifth and sixth rhytons. A continuous scene covers the convex sides of the amphora, and ornaments and images also decorate the hemispherical base. The two negro heads show widely open mouths with openings through which the liquid poured into the amphora can flow out. This allows two people to drink simultaneously, holding the amphora by the handles.
The Frieze of the Amphora
The depiction of the door of an ancient building, located beneath one of the amphora’s handles, divides the continuous band of images along the sides of the amphora into two parts.. The double-leaf door stands between two Ionic columns, above which there are lion heads. The door is ajar, and behind it a frightened bearded man can be seen. He is fleeing from a group of warriors who rush toward the door with raised swords, while the fifth warrior signals the attack with a trumpet.
On the other side of the door, two men converse quite calmly. They lean on staffs, such as those carried by heroes in ancient representations. Therefore, here we are dealing with images of heroes. They are also depicted with clearly defined faces, bodies, and clothing. One of them is old and has a beard. In his left hand, he holds an unclear object, and with his right hand he points to it with his index finger. His interlocutor looks toward the place indicated by the old man, while at the same time making a gesture with the thumb and index finger of his right hand, as if showing the distance between these two fingers.
The Base of the Amphora
On the base of the amphora, there are two identical scenes. One depicts the infant Heracles fighting two snakes. The other scene depicts a strong man holding a flute in one hand and a kantharos in the other.
Phiale
Ornaments arranged in concentric circles entirely cover the phiale around the central concave part. The innermost circle consists of small round ornaments, followed by a circle with larger acorns. After that, there are three rows of unique negro heads, each different from the others, with the size of the heads increasing in each subsequent row.
Literature:
Venedikov, Ivan. The Panagyurishte Gold Treasure. Sofia, Bulgarian Artist Publishing House
Media:
Authorial material – Dr. Pavel Tsvetankov
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