The Ritual of Triumph

In the ancient Olympic Games, before a champion was ever crowned with the olive wreath (kotinos), they received the ultimate emotional honor: the crowning of the ribbons.

​This elegant ceramic plaque depicts a victorious athlete during the stadium celebrations. His companions and the judges have tied the "tainiai" (ταινίαι)—sacred red or pink wool bands—around his torso and thighs, while he wears the traditional "pilos" (πίλος) cap on his head. This ritual was a powerful visual proclamation of arete (virtue and excellence) and a sign that the gods themselves smiled upon his victory.

12 x 24 cm