Illustration
NAM, Athens, 1130. Late 6th century BCE. This lekythos (perfume vessel) depicts the story of Odyssey, 12, where Odysseus is tied to his ship's mast in order to hear the music of the sirens, but to be restrained from straying into their danger. Odysseus wears a petasos, a typical traveling hat, and his short chiton is depicted in white. The bindings around Odysseus' wrists have been highlighted, and on either side of him is a diving dolphin, and a winged, bird legged siren, sitting atop a rock. The siren at right plays the auloi, at left, the chelys lyre.
About the Author
James' main area of research is ancient Greek music, but he has general interests in mythology, religion, and art & archaeology. A self-confessed philhellene, James keeps at least one eye on the Roman pie.
Related Images
Image
Odysseus and the Sirens
An Attic red-figure stamnos from Vulci c. 480-450 BCE depicting...
Image
Odysseus & the Sirens
Roman mosaic from the 2nd century CE depicting Odysseus and the...
Image
Apollo, detail from NAM, Athens, 215.
Detail of Apollo from NAM, Athens, 215. He is seated on a tree...
Image
Marsyas, detail from NAM, Athens, 215.
Detail of Marsyas from NAM, Athens, 215. The bearded satyr can...
Image
Panel Depicting Ulysses Resisting the Songs of the Sirens
This panel from a painted wall depicts Ulysses resisting the songs...
Image
Lekythos, Odysseus & Polyphemus
Oil, especially olive oil, is stored in a specialized Greek pottery...