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Bronze cut-out plaque of hunter

Χ3175
Metal (Bronze)
Incomplete
Height: 12 cm.
Syme
Sanctuary of Hermes and Aphrodite
Archaic period:
580-560 BC:
Gallery:
XVII
Case:
166
Exhibition thematic unit:
Geometric - Archaic - Classical period (10th - 4th c. BC). The Sanctuaries. From Minoan cult to the amalgamation of religious beliefs
Sanctuaries
Description
Bronze cut-out plaque of a hunter bearing pieces of an agrimi (wild goat) as an offering to the sanctuary. It was originally attached to a wooden backing as a votive offering. At the Syme Sanctuary, Hermes was worshipped in various aspects, including that of “Hermes Cedrites”, meaning “Hermes of the Cedars”, protector of his sacred tree and lord of nature, so it is thought that these plaques were placed on a tree. The hunter is carrying the head, neck and forequarter of the animal on his shoulder, supported with one hand. In his other hand he carries one of the goat’s legs. These pieces are depicted as offerings in several other cut-out plaques found at the sanctuary, the “worthy sacrifice” to the deities worshipped there. The scene is partially confirmed by other finds, as bones from these same portions of wild goats were found in the ashes of the sanctuary altar.
Bibliography:
Lebessi Α., “ Ιερόν Ερμού και Αφροδίτης εις Σύμην Κρήτης”, Πρακτικά της εν Αθήναις Αρχαιολογικής Εταιρίας 1972, 193-203. Lebessi Α., Το ιερό του Eρμή και της Aφροδίτης στη Σύμη Βιάννου Ι: 1. Χάλκινα κρητικά τορεύματα, Αθήνα 1985, 40-41, 100-102, 128-134, 142-144.
Author:
S. P.


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