The Samnites of the Fourth Century B.C., as Depicted on Campanian Vases and in Other Artforms

About this book

"This book is the first detailed study of how the ancient Samnites of the 4th century BC were depicted on pottery of the period. Mostly this means Campanian red-figure vase painting, although the author also discusses vases in other South Italian fabrics. Tomb-paintings give us further details, while references by ancient writers fill in some of the gaps in the information. Some items of Samnite armour and weaponry have survived and these allow us to assess the reliability and realism of the iconographic record." "The author covers Samnite costume, weaponry and armour. The men are warriors and typically they appear in their full panoply. They may be shown in battle, returning victorious with captives and trophies, or just relaxing at home. They also have an important part to play in religious ritual." "Women are usually shown engaged in important ritual activities, and we see little of them at home. Most often they are dressed in their full native costume, and are shown at ceremonies concerned with marriage and the honouring of the dead. It is their task also to offer the libations which mark a warrior's departure for battle, or his return from the fray."--Jacket.