Pythia Collection

The Pyhthoness
The Phythoness, was the event of when the Pythia, more commonly known as the Oracle of Delphi, would sit on a tripod interpreting her divination

The apotheosis of Homer, bas-relief by Greek sculptor Archelaus of Priene
6340189 The apotheosis of Homer, bas-relief by Greek sculptor Archelaus of Priene by Migliavacca, Innocente (19th century); (add.info.: The apotheosis of Homer)

Tablet depicting Hercules carrying off the Delphic Tripod in front of Apollo (marble)
XIR158866 Tablet depicting Hercules carrying off the Delphic Tripod in front of Apollo (marble) by Greek; Louvre, Paris, France; (add.info)

Pythia scarabaeus snail (Imbrial scarabus, Scarabus imbrium). Handcoloured copperplate engraving drawn and engraved by Richard Polydore Nodder from William Elford Leachs Zoological Miscellany

Pythia, High Priestess of the Temple of Apollo at Delphi (engraving)
3647009 Pythia, High Priestess of the Temple of Apollo at Delphi (engraving) by Leutemann, Heinrich (1824-1905); Private Collection; (add.info.: Pythia)

Orestes consulting the oracle of Apollo at Delphi (marble)
LRI662321 Orestes consulting the oracle of Apollo at Delphi (marble) by Roman, (1st century AD); 91.5x75.5 cm; Museo Archeologico Nazionale, Naples, Campania, Italy; Luisa Ricciarini; out of copyright

The Pythia of the Temple of Apollo at Delphi (chromolitho)
3100664 The Pythia of the Temple of Apollo at Delphi (chromolitho) by Spanish School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: The Pythia of the Temple of Apollo at Delphi)

Spartans asking Oracle at Delphi whether to make war against Athenians. Peloponnesian War (Second or Great 431-404BC) between Athens and Sparta. Wood engraving 1910

Achilles consulting Pythia, Roman carving. Circular stone carved relief of the Greek hero Achilles (left) consulting Pythia, the priestess presiding over the Oracle of Apollo at Delphi

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Pythia, also known as the Pythoness, holds a significant place in ancient Greek mythology and history. As the High Priestess of the Temple of Apollo at Delphi, she was believed to possess divine powers of prophecy. The apotheosis of Homer by Archelaus of Priene beautifully captures her mystical aura. Intricate tablets depict Hercules carrying off the Delphic Tripod in front of Apollo, symbolizing the importance placed on this sacred site. The marble sculpture portrays Orestes seeking guidance from Pythia's oracle, highlighting her role as a trusted advisor during critical times. The Pythia scarabaeus snail is named after this revered figure due to its resemblance to her mythical presence. Engravings and chromolithos immortalize her image, showcasing her influence on Greek society. Delphi itself was renowned for hosting events like the Pythian Games held in its grand stadium. Even Alexander the Great sought counsel from Pythia before embarking on his conquests. Legends tell us that even Spartans consulted with Oracle at Delphi when deciding whether to wage war against Athenians during the Peloponnesian War, and is said that Achilles himself sought wisdom from Pythia through Roman carvings. Pythia remains an enigmatic figure who bridged mortals with gods through divination and foresight. Her legacy lives on through art and historical accounts, reminding us of our fascination with ancient civilizations and their belief systems.