RECONSTRUCTING SPARTA · PAUS. 3.18.6–3.19.6
The Amyklaion and the Throne of Apollo
ANCIENT TESTIMONY · PAUSANIAS 3.18.6–3.19.6At Amyklai stood the colossal, archaic image of Apollo, “as much as thirty cubits” by Pausanias’ guess, like a bronze pillar with face, hands and feet, helmet, spear and bow (3.19.2). Around it Bathykles of Magnesia made a throne carved with dozens of myths (3.18.9–16); the altar-shaped base was said to be the tomb of Hyakinthos (3.19.3).
EXCAVATED EVIDENCEExcavations at the site began in the 19th century; Christos Tsountas excavated there in the 19th century (cited in the Annual of the British School at Athens). Current work to be added. A silver tetradrachm of Kleomenes III shows the cult statue (Berlin Münzkabinett; Commons photo, record to be verified).
CONJECTUREAll drawings of the throne are reconstructions from Pausanias’ text.
RECONSTRUCTION TO COME