Savoca Coins
Online Auction 209 | Silver 28 Apr 2024
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Mysia. Pergamon circa 133-67 BC.
Cistophoric Tetradrachm AR
28 mm, 12,05 g
Serpent emerging from cista mystica; all within ivy wreath / Two serpents entwined around bow and bowcase; monogram in wreath and AΠ above, monogram in left field, serpent-entwined thyrsus to right.
Very Fine
Kleiner, Hoard 26; SNG BnF 1728
The "cista mystica" is a symbolic motif from ancient Greek art and religious iconography. It refers to a mystical or sacred chest or basket often depicted in various artistic contexts, particularly on coins and in the visual representations of the mystery cults of ancient Greece. In its visual representation, the cista mystica typically features a cylindrical or rectangular container with a lid, from which a serpent or snake emerges. The snake is often depicted coiling around the lid or coming out of the container. The cista mystica is sometimes shown with handles on the sides, resembling a real-life chest or basket. The symbolism of the cista mystica is associated with various themes, including initiation, transformation, and the mysteries of the cults of Dionysus and other deities. The emergence of the snake from the cista mystica is often interpreted as a symbol of rebirth and spiritual awakening, as snakes were often linked with renewal and transformation in ancient Greek beliefs.
Cistophoric Tetradrachm AR
28 mm, 12,05 g
Serpent emerging from cista mystica; all within ivy wreath / Two serpents entwined around bow and bowcase; monogram in wreath and AΠ above, monogram in left field, serpent-entwined thyrsus to right.
Very Fine
Kleiner, Hoard 26; SNG BnF 1728
The "cista mystica" is a symbolic motif from ancient Greek art and religious iconography. It refers to a mystical or sacred chest or basket often depicted in various artistic contexts, particularly on coins and in the visual representations of the mystery cults of ancient Greece. In its visual representation, the cista mystica typically features a cylindrical or rectangular container with a lid, from which a serpent or snake emerges. The snake is often depicted coiling around the lid or coming out of the container. The cista mystica is sometimes shown with handles on the sides, resembling a real-life chest or basket. The symbolism of the cista mystica is associated with various themes, including initiation, transformation, and the mysteries of the cults of Dionysus and other deities. The emergence of the snake from the cista mystica is often interpreted as a symbol of rebirth and spiritual awakening, as snakes were often linked with renewal and transformation in ancient Greek beliefs.