Fragment of gravestone, Attic style

myminifactory

Around 580 BC, a series of imposing gravestones begins to emerge in Attica, featuring at their summits the enigmatic figure of a sphinx atop a modestly ornamented capital. As the century progresses past its midpoint, the capital's design becomes increasingly elaborate with intricate palmettes and spirals. However, this ornate style is short-lived, giving way soon after to a more streamlined stele type adorned solely with a palmette. By the early 5th century BC, this style has all but disappeared. Notably, most of these figures are male, with age often distinguished through subtle variations in pose: youthful athletes, battle-hardened warriors, and elderly men accompanied by loyal canines. In the final phase, the rectangular bases supporting these stelai may be lavishly decorated on three sides with intricate relief carvings.