Geometric skyphos from Athens, on the interior of which a religious dance is depicted. Two male figures lead the dance holding a sword, and a lyre made from a tortoise shell. Several scholars claim that the dance refers to the Thargelia, an Athenian festival in honour of Apollo, celebrated during the month of Thargelion (May). On the second day of festivities, the winners of the games would dedicate their prizes, the tripods, to the sanctuary of the god. This probably explains the representation of four tripods on the external surface of the vase. Late 8th century BC. National Archaeological Museum, Athens 874. Hellenic Ministry of Culture/Archaeological Receipts Fund. © Hellenic Ministry of Culture