2020 IB Extended Essays

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the tetradrachms (4 drachmas) of Aetna began the use of Olympia pedimental figures. One

side of the coin features the head of Silenos, and the other, enthroned Zeus (Figure 6).

A decade or so following, Sicilian Naxos created tetradrachms with the head of Dionysus

on one side, and a squatting Silenos on the other. Coins featuring Athena and Apollo

became increasingly popular, along with depictions of minor deities performing acts

from their respective myths. This shows the extent of integration of the spiritual in

everyday life.

Engraved Gems

Engraved stones were referred to as ‘gems’, similarly to previous art mediums, the

stylistic evolution from the Archaic Period to Hellenistic – is especially evident in this

medium. These pieces were monumental and conveyed heavy meaning and symbolic

ideas through the work of miniature representations. These gems were commonly used

as seals and marks of identification, where within this period of many incapable of

writing, was vital although only practiced by upper classes and kept as amulets and

ornaments. In relation to belief, it was a story by Herodotos that encouraged and stated

the value and importance of a gem. Because of this story and the seen value of

importance of gems, treasure lists of temples during the 4 th and 5 th centuries BCE of the

Parthenon show that gems were frequently used as offerings to show their devotion.