In myth, the hero who was sent to decapitate the Gorgo Medusa. He succeeds in this with the help of a magic cap of darkness, winged boots and a special bag (kibisis) in which to carry the petrifying head of Gorgo. He is helped by Athena. He also rescues Andromeda (an African princess) from a sea-monster (ketos) sent to devour her by Poseidon.
Above left: Detail from an Athenian red-figure clay vase, about 450 BC. New York, Metropolitan Museum 45.11.1. © Metropolitan Museum, New York
Above right: Perseus and the Nymphs. Chalcidian amphora from Caere. London, British Museum B155 © British Museum