Fragment from the Harpy Tomb frieze

myminifactory

The Harpy Tomb stands tall in Xanthos, a once-thriving city in southwestern Anatolia, now a deserted land in modern-day Turkey. Dating back to around 480-470 BC, this marble chamber sat atop a lofty pillar and boasted intricate marble panels carved with precision in bas-relief. It is believed that the tomb might belong to Kybernis, a former king of Xanthos. The Harpy Tomb's design is rooted in the Greek Archaic style, showcasing a strong influence from Greek art. However, the presence of non-Greek elements in the carvings hints at a cultural exchange between the Lycians and Greeks. The monument gets its name from four carved female figures with wings, evoking images of Harpies. Despite initial interpretations, it is now widely accepted that these winged creatures are not actually Harpies. Instead, they may represent Greek deities or unknown Lycian deities that have been absorbed into the local mythology. An alternative theory suggests that these scenes depict judgement in the afterlife and supplication to Lycian rulers, adding another layer of mystery to this ancient monument.