Inventory number
ΕΜ 13291
Artist
Attic workshop
Category
Inscription
Period
Classical Period
Date
343-342 BC
Dimensions
Height: 0.231 m
Length: 0.61 m
Width: 0.25 m
Relief dimensions: 0.24 x 0.58 m
Relief depth: 0.03 m
Material
Marble from Penteli
Location
First Floor, North
This stele is assembled from four fragments the three of which were discovered in the 1840 excavations on the Acropolis. It is the tallest honorary decree that has been found in Athens.
The inscription carved in the Ionic alphabet, concerns Arybbas king of the Molossoi of Epirus, Alketas’ son. The Athenians grant him hospitality and privileges after his dethronement by Philip II of Macedonia. Among his privileges he is granted the title of Athenian citizen –the greatest honour given to a foreigner- with which he receives legal protection; the right to own land and a residence in Athens; full access to the state’s assemblies; and tax relief. The same privileges had also been granted to his father, Alketas, and his grandfather, Tharrhypas.
Below the inscription are depicted three olive and laurel wreaths that may be related to Arybbas’ equestrian victories at the Pythian and Olympic Games, perhaps of 360 BC and 352 BC.
Still lower on the stele, a quadriga driven by a Nike and a horseman, possibly Arybbas, following it, are depicted.
Many scholars believe that the relief ΕΑΜ 2948 was also once part of this stele, placed on its upper part.
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