The Achilles Platter
The largest item in the Seuso treasure is the Achilles platter, which is decorated with scenes from the life of the most well-known and outstanding hero of the Trojan War. On its wide rim, below the medallion, the birth of Achilles can be seen, which is followed by the attention of the gods Zeus, Apollo, Helios, Hermes and Poseidon, as well as Heracles. The hero was hidden in women’s clothes by his mother Thetis on the island of Skyros to prevent her son’s participation in the Trojan War, in which — it was foretold — he would meet his death. However, the cunning Odysseus tricked Achilles into joining the Greek army, which was fighting at the walls of Troy. On hearing the sound of the battle trumpet, the hero dressed in women’s clothes spontaneously seized a spear and a shield, thus revealing his identity. The silversmith rendered this tense moment in the centre of the platter.
The rim of the platter, is decorated with three additional scenes. They are separated by pedestals, each with a theatrical mask. The contest between Athena and Poseidon for ruling Athens can be seen above the medallion. In the centre of the scene there is a female figure, who is holding high the decisive vote that brought success for Athena. Nike is handing the wreath of victory to the goddess who is holding the olive branch in her hand, while Poseidon is angrily running away. On two sides Dionysiac processions decorate the rim of the plate. One of them focuses on the discovery of Ariadne — the peacefully sleeping Cretan princess is found by Dionysus on his arrival with his entourage. A satyr lifting her clothes uncovers Ariadne’s beauty.
The Achilles platter, used for serving food and also for display, was made from a single, thick cast silver plate and its rim was framed with beads. The reliefs were shaped on the upper surface of the platter.
