Tripod

A three-footed stand and cauldron, usually of bronze. It commonly served as a prize, for success either in athletic contests or in the theatre. It therefore often appears in sanctuary settings (where athletic and theatrical events took place), especially those associated with the god Apollo since his oracular priestess was deemed to sit on one.

Above left: Apollo on a winged tripod. Detail from an Attic red-figure clay vase, about 440-430 BC. Munich, Antikensammlungen 2412. © Antikensammlungen, Munich Licence Plate 11 UK 1007 204

Above middle: Detail from an Athenian red-figure clay vase, about 525-475 BC. Rome, Museo Gregoriano Etrusco Vaticano 16568 © Museo Gregoriano Etrusco Vaticano Licence Plate 11 UK 1007 205

Above right: Croton coin Obv c.550-530 BC. Private collection © Kraay and Hirmer pl. 92,264