| Rhyton terminating in the forepart of a wild cat |
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| Year | c. 1st century BC |
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| Medium | Silver with mercury gilt |
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| Location | Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York |
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The Metropolitan Museum of Art has in its collection a 1st-century rhyton terminating in the forepart of a wild cat. The silver drinking vessel, which depicts a wild cat, is attributed to the Parthian Empire.[1]
Description
The rhyton exhibits several hallmarks of Hellenistic art, which were introduced to Iran during the conquests of Alexander the Great. These symbols include dancing women, grapevines, and a panther, all of which are strongly associated with wine-centric Dionysian cults. The Metropolitan Museum of Art describes the work as "a fine example of the enduring influence of Hellenistic culture."[1]
References
