Grave Relief of Phraseas and Euandreia

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The Grave Relief of Thraseas and Euandria from the middle of the fourth century BC is housed in the Pergamon Museum and belongs to the Antikensammlung Berlin. The relief was discovered in Athens, specifically in the Agia Triada neighborhood, near the ancient Kerameikos. It previously belonged to the Sabouroff collection and was acquired by the Antikensammlung Berlin in 1884. Measuring 160 cm high and 91 cm wide, the stele is carved from Pentelic marble, dating back to around 350-340 BC. On the architrave, Thraseas and Euandria are identified as a couple from Perithoidai. Grave monuments of this type were typically erected along streets in Greek cities at the city's edges. At its creation, the relief featured more depth, with figures distinct from the background. As an early example of this new style, the figures still exude a strong, plastic liveliness. In the foreground, Thraseas and Euandria sit together, surrounded by their grief-stricken household. On the left stands Thraseas, bearded and clad in a cloak. To his right sits Euandria, wearing a chiton on a cushioned stool and sandals on her feet resting on a footstool. The couple holds hands, gazing into each other's eyes as a testament to their enduring bond despite death's parting. A servant woman with short hair, typical of slaves, stands behind them, her head in her hands, expressing the household's deep sorrow. This gesture is also seen in other artworks and adds further depth to the relief. The young slave's presence in the background, rendered in less detail, highlights the significance of their grief. At the edge of the relief, a flat naiskos with antae, architrave, and gable frames the scene, while three acroteria that once stood on top are now lost.