Poseidon
by CTCWeb Editors
Poseidon in Art
The depiction of a god or goddess by ancient Greek artist is normally consistent and drawn from the mythology surrounding the god or goddess. Students should compare the many artistic portrayals of Poseidon for consistencies. A list of regularly portrayed scenes, positions and actions should be compiled. From this list clear conclusions may be drawn as to the regular portrayal of Poseidon.
Below are selected vases, sculpture and coins on which Poseidon appears. These items have been selected for their clear images and descriptions.
BCMA 1919.58.8 - Poseidon throwing trident.
BCMA 1919.58.8 D - Poseidon throwing trident.
Dewing 1195 - Poseidon throwing trident.
Dewing 1206 - Head of Poseidon with hair bound in sea-weed.
Parthenon, East Frieze slab 6 - Poseidon seated at an assembly of the gods.
Athens Br. 15161 - This sculpture is more often identified with Zeus but it could also be Poseidon throwing a trident.
Boston 01.8059 - Poseidon walks in front of his horses and sports a red beard.
Harvard 1960.339 - Poseidon clasps the hand of his son, Theseus. Poseidon holds a long trident.
Harvard 1977.216.2244 - Poseidon attends an assembly of the gods carrying a fish and his trident. On this vase he has red hair.
Philadelphia MS3440 - Poseidon accompanies Zeus wearing a crown and carrying his trident.
Yale 1985.4.1 - Poseidon sits on a throne holding his trident. Nike arrives pouring an offering of wine to Poseidon.
Homer, Iliad 13.23 - This is a very descriptive passage of Poseidon mounting his chariot. He is dressed in gold, holding a golden whip. The horses he drives have bronze hooves and gold manes. The chariot glides across the sea without wetting the
Homeric Hymn 22: To Poseidon, line 7 - This hymn describes Poseidon as the dark-haired lord.
Pausanias 1.14.6 - Pausanias says that the god of the sea has blue eyes.
