Graffito from Zenonov Chersonesos Cover Image
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Граффито из Зенонова Херсонеса
Graffito from Zenonov Chersonesos

Author(s): T. V. Blavatskaya
Subject(s): History, Archaeology, Cultural history, Local History / Microhistory, Ancient World
Published by: Институт за балканистика с Център по тракология - Българска академия на науките

Summary/Abstract: The study presents a new analysis of an already known inscription on the wall of an amphora from the late 5th – early 4th century BC, preserved on four linked fragments. The style of writing the text is close to the lapidary stoichedon. The size of the letters and the technique of their execution are analysed. Nine personal names are mentioned in the inscription, as well as measuring units (medimna), but it is difficult to determine whether Attic or Miletic units were used, or whether the use of local medimna can be assumed. The preserved parts of the text are interpreted as a list of nine citizens (zenonites) making a sacrificial offering of grain or flour. The quantity is strictly individual for every participant in the rite. It is assumed that the text reflected a sacrificial offering of the first fruit of the harvest (απαρχαί), which was of great significance in the religion of the Greeks. The rite required of every farmer to make a sacrificial offering in kind, which was proportional to the crop he had harvested.

  • Issue Year: 2011
  • Issue No: 19
  • Page Range: 39-49
  • Page Count: 11
  • Language: Russian