New Observations on the Iconography of the Amphora-Rhyton from the Panagyurishte Gold Treasure
New Observations on the Iconography of the Amphora-Rhyton from the Panagyurishte Gold Treasure

Summary/Abstract: Since the discovery of the most renowned Thracian treasure in December 1949 and its subsequent publication in 1956, it has become not only an emblematic representation of Thracian culture but also a subject of ongoing scholarly interest. Among the scenes depicted on the nine vessels, the most enigmatic is that on the body of the amphora-rhyton. The absence of inscriptions or distinct iconographic features has led to a range of interpretations among scholars, encompassing depictions of mythological narratives involving prominent Greek heroes, as well as representations of ritualistic actions or historical events. The present study employs an alternative approach to investigate the scene by focusing on individual iconographic elements and their interrelations, without delving into previous hypotheses. By drawing parallels with conventional pictorial frameworks that effectively convey clear concepts, this study aims to reconstruct the intended meaning of the depiction while remaining mindful of specific precautions. By utilizing the premise that the visual representations of Greek mythology should not be regarded as a homogeneous collection of documents governed by the conventions of literary texts, but are influenced by a variety of factors, the analysis asserts that the scene on the body of the amphora-rhyton illustrates an episode from the mythology of Theseus. Furthermore, the scenes and figures represented on the remaining six rhyta, excluding those on the phiale and the rhyton featuring a goat's protome, are also intricately linked to the Athenian hero, thereby contributing to a cohesive pictorial narrative. In addition, by delineating the cultural and historical context surrounding the use of the treasure, the conclusion that it may have belonged to the last significant Odrysian ruler, Seuthes III, is convincingly supported by several pieces of evidence.

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