Thracian Stone Relief Panel - Horse and Rider

Southeastern Europe, Thrace (modern borders in Bulgaria, Greece, and Turkey), ca. 1st century BCE to 2nd century CE. A carved pedimented limestone stele with a rectangular recess containing a Thracian Rider mounted upon a striding horse in relief, wearing a short chiton or tunic that is wonderfully detailed with a scarf or sash and pleats, and a pointed helmet; his raised hand clenching a standard. Thracian horseman symbolizing victory and strength were a recurring motif on eastern Balcanic mythology during the Roman era. Size: 7.5" W x 9.75" H (19 cm x 24.8 cm); 14.125" H (35.9 cm) on included custom stand.

Scholars believe this riding hero to be the main deity of Ancient Thrace who was extremely popular in the Roman period and did not appear to have a name, but instead was referred to only as the hero. A widespread cult of gods or heroes who appeared as hunters or riders on horseback existed from about 1000 BCE. Some examples include the Greek Dioscuri, Castor and Pollux, the Romano-Celtic Jupiter Taranis and the Danubian rider-gods. A superb example of this wondrous mythological figure!

Provenance: private J.H. collection, Beaverton, Oregon, USA, acquired in 2010; ex-Artemis Gallery; ex-private American collection, acquired at auction

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#150039
Condition Report: Normal surface wear and abrasions with earthen deposits. Old losses to peripheries and high-pointed areas as shown. Tiny partial perforation to lower verso.