Classification
Dimensions
87 x 103 x 12 cm
Date
early 20th century
Period
Material
Iconography
Inventory
Ag.290
ID
Hyp-6149
References
The relief shows Helios as he emerges from the sea in his chariot. The long, curly hair of the young sun god is surrounded with a double radiate crown and a nimbus. His outstretched right hand held the reins (which were painted, not carved). The floating mantle of the deity emphasises the swiftness of movement. The legs of the horses barely touch the ground, they are galloping upwards — the scene is thus a depiction of sunrise. The city of Ilion (Troy) was famous for its mythical battle already in antiquity. The Berlin relief comes from the Temple of Athena in Troy, where it served as the corner block of a row of metopes on the north side of the building.
