Collection: London, British Museum
Title: Lower battle frieze (from Nereid Monument)
Context: From Xanthos
Findspot: Found at Xanthos
Summary: Battle of Greeks and Barbarians
Object Function: Funerary
Material: Marble
Sculpture Type: Architectural
Category: Statuary group
Placement: Frieze
Style: Late Classical
Technique: High relief
Original or Copy: Original
Date: ca. 400 BC - ca. 380 BC
Dimensions: 1.02 m
Scale: Under life-size
Region: Lycia
Period: Late Classical
In Group: Nereid Monument

Subject Description: This scene depicts a battle between Greeks and Barbarians. Both sides are comprised of light- and heavy-armed troops, and the barbarians are supported by cavalry and archers. Some of the Greeks are shown fighting nude. The barbarians (Persians) are recognizable through oriental costume (e.g., Persian caps and trousers) and weapons (such as axes), which was superimposed by a warfare scene illustrating cavalry and archers.

Form & Style: This was the lowest frieze on the podium suporting the Nereid Monument.

Condition: Nearly complete

Condition Description: Comprised of 16 joining blocks, which are substantially intact. Good condition, with some breaks, and legs/feet chipped off.

Collection History: See entry on Nereid Monument

Sources Used: See entry on Nereid Monument

Other Bibliography: Boardman 1995, fig. 218.15-16