Heraklion Archaeological Museum - CollectiveAccess System : Seals and non-metal jewellery : Seal with horseman [Σ-Κ2981]

Seal with horseman

Σ-Κ2981

Bone (Ivory)

Intact

Length: 2.15 cm. Width: 1.9 cm. Thickness: 0.65 cm.

Idaean Cave

Main Chamber

Protogeometric-Geometric period:

1050-700 BC:

Gallery:

XVII

Case:

169

Exhibition thematic unit:

Geometric - Archaic - Classical period (10th - 4th c. BC). The Sanctuaries. From Minoan cult to the amalgamation of religious beliefs

Sacred Caves

Description

Rectangular plaque seal, perforated along the short axis. This is a rare example from the “Idaean Cave” seal group. On the sealing surface is a horseman moving left, right hand raised. He is abstractly rendered, omitting the lower body. The position of the horse’s legs gives the impression of a trot or gentle gallop. In front of the horse, as the main ornament in the empty space, is a seated dog placed vertically. On the narrower rear side is an incised herringbone pattern in three parallel rows.

Bibliography:

J. Sakellarakis - E. Sapouna-Sakellaraki, Το Ιδαίο Άντρο. Ιερό και μαντείο, Athens 2013, vol. Β., 207, pl. 123, 12.

Author:

K. S.

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