Griffin Protome

This cast griffin protome was one of several that once decorated the shoulder of a large bronze cauldron. The protome was attached by means of the holes in its flanged base. The creature is represented here with upright ears, a gaping mouth, and wide-open eyes that were once inlaid with another material. Above the eyes is a knoblike projection, with a smaller one closer to the beak. Its serpent-like neck is decorated with a spiral coil on either side.

Animals and mythical creatures were often chosen to decorate large bronze cauldrons that were popular votive offerings in Greek sanctuaries in the early Archaic period (about 700–480 B.C.). The griffin—a fantastic beast with the body of a lion and the head of an eagle—was a favorite motif. These vessels were popular dedications to the gods and have been found in large numbers at the sanctuaries of Zeus at Olympia, Apollo at Delphi, and Hera at Samos. They were supported on tripods and presented by, among others, victors in athletic games. The gift of a large object made from a valuable material like bronze served as a public display of the dedicator's wealth, status, and power.