Slabs from the Amazon frieze 6

myminifactory

The expedition by Herakles and Theseus to Themiskyra reveals itself as the subject of this depiction, followed by the battle against the Amazons. This theme was frequently featured in Greek art, but it held special significance for Maussollos. According to Karian tradition, an axe owned by Hippolyte, the Amazon queen, was stored at Labraunda, the ancestral sanctuary of the Hekatomnid dynasty. A scene showing Hippolyte locked in combat with Herakles appears on one frieze slab. This crucial scene likely occupied a prominent position on the monument, possibly situated at the centre of the east side. The frieze was positioned at the top of the podium that supported the building. An ancient corner block discovered in the castle of St. Peter at Bodrum confirms that the frieze converged at the corners and probably encircled all four sides of the Mausoleum. The frieze boasted vibrant colours, with the background painted a deep blue hue and the flesh tones rendered a rich red colour, sometimes augmented by gilding. Metal embellishments were added to represent weapons, reins, and bridles according to the preference of each sculptor.