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Naxian Sphinx
Naxian Sphinx (2.3m / 7.5ft tall)
c. 570-560BCE, archaic period
Delphi Museum, Greece
Originally perched atop a 10m (33ft) tall Ionic column next to the Temple of Apollo's retaining wall, this giant sphinx towered above pilgrims climbing the Sacred Way towards the temple and its oracle. Dedicated by the people of the island of Naxos, an inscription on the base reminded viewers that they had promanteia, the right to cut in line when seeking the advice of the Pythia, the priestess who spoke Apollo's oracles.
The style is archaic, characterized by the slightly geometric and stiff posture, almond-shaped eyes and enigmatic smile.
© 2005 Ellen Brundige
Illustration for Ancient Greece Odyssey Part Four: Delphi.
(information on Sphinx from Delphi by Basil Petrakos p. 50)
P.S. Do you enjoy Greek mythology? Check out my Mythical Monsters of Ancient Greece Trivia Quiz!
Naxian Sphinx
Naxian Sphinx (2.3m / 7.5ft tall)
c. 570-560BCE, archaic period
Delphi Museum, Greece
Originally perched atop a 10m (33ft) tall Ionic column next to the Temple of Apollo's retaining wall, this giant sphinx towered above pilgrims climbing the Sacred Way towards the temple and its oracle. Dedicated by the people of the island of Naxos, an inscription on the base reminded viewers that they had promanteia, the right to cut in line when seeking the advice of the Pythia, the priestess who spoke Apollo's oracles.
The style is archaic, characterized by the slightly geometric and stiff posture, almond-shaped eyes and enigmatic smile.
© 2005 Ellen Brundige
Illustration for Ancient Greece Odyssey Part Four: Delphi.
(information on Sphinx from Delphi by Basil Petrakos p. 50)
P.S. Do you enjoy Greek mythology? Check out my Mythical Monsters of Ancient Greece Trivia Quiz!