Syracuse – The Demareteion Tetradrachm
160,00€
The “Syracuse – The Tetradrachm of Demareteion” pendant takes its name from the famous Tetradrachm of Demareteion, a celebrated ancient coin that reflects the wealth and power of ancient Syracuse — a city renowned for its rich cultural and artistic heritage.
The refined interplay between the brilliance of sterling silver and the warm accents of bronze gives this pendant depth and contrast, enhancing its aesthetic charm.
The Tetradrachm of Demareteion, originally minted in the 5th century BC, is celebrated for its artistic excellence and as a symbol of the prosperity and dominance of the city-state of Syracuse.
The Tetradrachm of Demareteion – A Symbol of Victory and Wealth
The Tetradrachm of Demareteion was minted to commemorate the victory of Syracuse over the Carthaginians at the Battle of Himera in 480 BC. According to legend, the coin was produced using the gold gifted to the city by Demarete, the wife of Gelon, the tyrant of Syracuse, as a gesture of gratitude for the triumph.
This coin is considered one of the most beautiful and artistically refined pieces of ancient Greek coinage, not only for its exquisite design but also for its symbolic significance:
•Obverse: The coin featured the head of the nymph Arethusa, the protective spirit of Syracuse, surrounded by dolphins — symbols of the city’s connection to the sea and divine protection.
•Reverse: It depicted a victorious charioteer riding a quadriga (a four-horse chariot), symbolizing Syracuse’s military supremacy, with Nike (the goddess of victory) crowning the charioteer.
Arethusa and the Symbolism of the Coin
Arethusa held deep significance for the people of Syracuse. According to Greek mythology, Arethusa was a nymph pursued by the river god Alpheus. To escape him, she was transformed into a sacred spring on the island of Ortygia (modern-day Syracuse), where her waters were believed to merge with those of the Alpheus River — a symbol of eternal union and protection.
The dolphins surrounding Arethusa represent Syracuse’s maritime strength and the protective presence of the goddess over the city. The quadriga on the reverse side of the coin symbolizes the political and military dominance of Syracuse in the ancient Mediterranean.
Design Inspired by Classical Numismatics
The pendant’s design faithfully reflects the artistic style of the original Demareteion tetradrachm:
•Obverse: The face of Arethusa is finely detailed, with flowing hair and an expression of calm and regal beauty.
•Reverse: (On the original coin) The victorious charioteer in the quadriga, crowned by Nike, symbolized Syracuse’s dominance and the favor of the gods.
This pendant recreates the elegance and depth of the original coin through masterful craftsmanship, preserving the artistic tradition and symbolism of ancient Syracuse.
Premium Materials and Craftsmanship
The pendant is crafted in 925 sterling silver with bronze accents, creating a striking contrast between the brilliance of the silver and the warm, golden glow of the bronze.
•Material: Sterling Silver 925 – 9.3 gr and Bronze – 3.7 gr
•Included Chain: Sterling Silver 925
•Length: 45 cm
•Weight: 9 gr
•Thickness: 1.7 mm
The careful detailing and high-quality finish reflect the techniques of ancient Greek engravers, with crisp details that enhance the pendant’s depth and texture. The harmonious blend of silver and bronze evokes the artistic excellence of Greek coinage, elevating the piece’s historical and aesthetic value.
A Symbol of Power and Victory
Wearing the “Syracuse – The Tetradrachm of Demareteion” pendant means carrying a symbol of protection, power, and triumph. Arethusa embodies the guiding spirit of Syracuse and its connection to the sea, while the quadriga represents victory and political supremacy. This pendant is not just a jewel — it is a tribute to one of the greatest cultural and military achievements of ancient Greece.
Shipping and Availability
•Standard free delivery with Poste Italiane: 5–7 business days with a minimum order of €250
•Express delivery with DHL: available for faster shipping at an additional cost
| Metal |
Sterling Silver 925 |
|---|
In stock
Description
A Tribute to the Tetradrachm of Demareteion
The Tetradrachm of Demareteion was issued to commemorate the victory of Syracuse over the Carthaginians at the Battle of Himera (480 BC). According to legend, the coin was minted using gold donated by Demarete, the wife of Gelon, the tyrant of Syracuse, as a gesture of gratitude for the victory. Hence the name “Demareteion.”
This coin is considered one of the most beautiful and refined examples of Greek numismatics, not only for the quality of its engraving but also for its rich symbolism:
•Obverse: The coin features the head of the nymph Arethusa, protector of Syracuse, surrounded by swimming dolphins — a symbol of the city’s connection to the sea and divine protection.
•Reverse: It depicts a charioteer driving a quadriga (a four-horse chariot), a symbol of victory and Syracuse’s military supremacy. The figure of the charioteer represents Syracuse’s political and military success, with a winged Nike crowning him as a sign of triumph.
