Full Details

Thursday, November 9

Roman Religion, Pisidian Practice: Votive 'Rock Art' in Southwest Anatolia
Time:
5:15 pm
Presenter:
Tyler Jo Smith, PhD, University of Virginia
Location:
342 Cathedral of Learning
Announced by:
European Studies Center on behalf of The Department of Classics and The Archaeological Institute of America
Cost:
Free and open to the public
Contact:
Allyson Delnore
Contact Email:
adelnore@pitt.edu

The local Anatolian horseman, sometimes called Kakasbos, and the twin hero-gods, Castor and Pollux, are among the figures featured in Hellenistic and Roman rock-cut reliefs that have been discovered in archaeological work at Pisidia. Similar reliefs have been identified in northern Lycia. This paper presents the reliefs by type and location, and takes a fresh look at their cults and iconography. As permanent votive dedications, the relief carvings play both devotional and commemorative roles. Their function and iconography also express the importance of protection. It is arguable that the divinities themselves are neither fully Greco-Roman nor fully Anatolian, and that their conflation is a uniquely local Pisidian phenomenon. The art of rock-carving, as well as the use of votive niches and 'cup marks', also point to local practices.

Dr. Tyler Jo Smith is the Director of Interdisciplinary Archaeology Program and Associate Professor of Classical Art and Architecture at the University of Virginia. Her areas of specialization include Greek and Roman pottery, vase painting, and sculpture.