| Collection: | London, British Museum |
| Title: | Harpy Tomb |
| Context: | From Xanthos |
| Findspot: | Excavated at Xanthos (Agora) |
| Summary: | Tomb relief with images of sirens and women |
| Object Function: | Funerary |
| Material: | Marble |
| Sculpture Type: | Architectural |
| Category: | Single sculpture |
| Placement: | Frieze |
| Style: | Late Archaic |
| Date: | ca. 480 BC |
| Dimensions: | H 1.02 m |
| Scale: | Life-size |
| Region: | Lycia |
| Period: | Early Classical |
Subject Description:
The winged sirens on the short (north and south) sides of the tomb are death demons, bearing the souls of the dead. The scenes on the long sides are variously interpreted. The seated figures are probably deceased members of the family buried in this tomb: offerings are brought to them as part of the funerary meal. The scene on the east side may reflect Persian court ritual; this indicates that the tomb may have belonged to a ruling family of Xanthos.
Condition: Intact
Other Notes:
When the marble reliefs were found in situ in the Agora of Xanthos, surmounting a limestone pillar, ca. 5 m high, the winged sirens on either end (north and south sides) were interpreted as harpies snatching the daughters of King Pandareos of Lycia. Hence the name, "Harpy Tomb" given to this monument.
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