Two Greek warriors are battling an Amazon, a member of a mythical race of warrior women. The Amazon has white skin, indicating she is female, and is dressed as a male warrior with a helmet and shield. In contrast, the Greeks are ‘heroically’ naked, and carry spears and scabbards. This scene is an example of an Amazonomachy, a recurring theme in Greek art, depicting the mythical war with the Amazons.
The Greek hero Theseus instigated the battle with the Amazons when he sailed to their land intent on abducting their queen Hippolyte. Initially the Amazons welcomed him warmly and Hippolyte visited his ship bringing gifts. Theseus captured her by sailing away while she was on board. Enraged, the Amazons invaded Attica. After a series of fierce battles, the Athenian forces defeated the Amazons, but animosity between the two sides remained.
Battles between various heroes and the Amazons became a recurrent feature in myth and art. Interestingly, in ancient depictions of battles, Amazons are always shown defeated by male warriors.
