copy, exhibit case layout
Object label written for the reinstallation of the Greek and Roman Galleries of the Rhode Island School of Design Museum of Art.
Unknown artist, Greek
Ten-drachma coin (decadrachm), 405-400 BCE
Silver
As the images on coins became increasingly detailed, masters of the craft emerged. Two of the most famous die-engravers of the ancient world, Kimon and Euainetos, produced silver decadrachms for the city of Syracuse. These large coins were most likely prizes for victors of the city’s annual Assinarian Games. The obverse of this coin, which depicts a quadriga or four-horse chariot, was engraved by Kimon. Kimon’s work shows dramatic movement, with horses charging in one direction while the goddess of Victory flies above.