An Ancient Greek Mosaic Depicting A Pair Of Dancing Satyrs Was Found By Construction Workers On The Island Of Euboea
During a construction project involving a new water line, workers in Greece stumbled across an ancient mosaic depicting a pair of dancing satyrs, which are man-animal hybrid spirits of nature found in Greek mythology.
The designs were embedded in a white pebbled floor that once decorated a home dating back to the middle of the fourth century B.C.E.
According to the Greek Ministry of Culture, the mosaic floor was found in the town of Eretria, located on the island of Euboea, which was settled by ancient Greeks.
Researchers concluded that the floor is from the late classical period, based on its similarity to floors in a nearby structure called the “House of the Mosaics” that also dates to the fourth century B.C.E.
The mosaic is extremely well-preserved and measures just over three feet wide. It was made using white and colored pebbles arranged in a pattern against a blue circular background.
The artwork features two male figures who aren’t wearing any clothes. They both have yellow hair, pointed ears, and horse-like tails.
The character on the left had a pair of forehead horns and was playing a double flute. Meanwhile, the other figure on the right had a beard and appeared to be dancing.
In ancient Greek mythology, satyrs were considered wild creatures that were often associated with Dionysus, the Greek god of fertility, wine, vegetation, pleasure, and ritual madness.
The figures from the mosaic resemble other portrayals of satyrs from ancient Greece—unclothed men with horns and tails. But during the Hellenistic age, which began around 323 B.C.E., the Greeks started depicting satyrs as half-man and half-goat with hooves and horns.
gatsi – stock.adobe.com – illustrative purposes only
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After that, the image of satyrs continued to evolve. For centuries, they remained a common artistic feature.
In addition to the mosaic, the researchers unearthed a raised mortar floor. It bordered the square pebble floor, running along three sides of the room.
The additional discovery allowed the research team to draw further conclusions on how the building was utilized.
It is likely that people, primarily men, occupied the structure. They placed beds or recliners on the raised floor and used the space to hold festive gatherings or banquets.
The “cheerful mood” of the satyrs “connected figuratively” to the joyful celebrations that took place in the house.
By the late classical period, an era of wealth and artistic accomplishments, private lavish homes became more common in Eretria.
After the settlement was abandoned in the fifth and sixth centuries C.E., the site was used as a cemetery.
The researchers discovered five tombs that had been dug in the room. Five other tombs were buried nearby.
To prevent further damage to the mosaic, officials have decided to reroute construction. A protective covering has been placed on top of the ancient mosaic to shield it from harm.
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