Young red-haired Persephone shines from the mosaics in Amphipolis

16 October 2014 / 15:10:36 GRReporter

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The abduction of Persephone by Hades under the gaze of cold-blooded god Mercury is the scene depicted by the mosaic found in the tomb in Amphipolis. Its dimensions are 4.5 m by 3 m, and the last layers of soil from the eastern part of the work were removed today. The excavations in the western part of the dome are over whereas the work in the eastern part and behind it is currently continuing.
    The third scene behind the man with the beard who wears a crown and is dressed in a rich red garment was uncovered today as well. The female figure is dressed in a white tunic and her left hand is raised. She is young, red-haired and her dress is tied with a thin red belt under the bust. She has a jewel on her left wrist. Archaeologists are convinced that this is a scene from Greek mythology, depicting the abduction of Persephone, daughter of fertility goddess Demeter and god of the underworld Hades. God Mercury is also present, with a cool expression, as this scene is usually portrayed.
     Scientists note not only the extreme brightness of the colours, but also the skilful painting of the images. The picture is remarkably similar to that found in the so-called Tomb of Persephone at Vergina, but there it is a mural painting whereas in Amphipolis it is a floor mosaic of pebbles placed in a tomb.
     Restorers have immediately started the restoration and preservation works on the mosaic. They will cover it with a thin layer of felizol and will protect it with a wooden base. The floor panel at the entrance of the fourth room will be put 40 cm above the wooden base. Unfortunately, the mosaic is seriously damaged as plaster has fallen on it from a height of about 8-10 cm and there is a yellowish coating of about 10-12 cm due to the heavy clay sand.