Commentary Prepared by Dr. Julia Lenaghan, Ashmolean Museum

A 141 N
Satyr and Dolphin; 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, especially in the satyr’s face. The thighs of the pirate are scored.

Description:
The scene shows two figures and a tree. To the left is a pair of human legs suspended horizontally in mid-air, in the center a satyr. The satyr is depicted frontally, his torso turned slightly to the left. He leans with his left leg against a tree with many branches, one of which he holds with both hands. A panther skin is tied around his neck and flows behind him.

Discussion:
The scene depicted here has an equivalent on the opposite section of the frieze (A 141f). An elderly, bearded satyr is about to break off a branch from a tree, in order to use it as a makeshift weapon. Further to the left, a pirate tries to escape, but at that very moment is being transformed into a dolphin. 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) 18-20 figs. 18-20 pl. 10 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.