Detail of a Kylix with Apollo Riding a Griffin in the Getty Villa, June 2016

Wine Cup with Apollo Riding a Griffin
Greek, made in Athens, about 380 BC
Terracotta
Red-figured kylix attributed to the Meleager Painter

Inventory # 82.AE.43

In Greek myth, griffins represented the power of the sun and were sacred to Apollo (god of prophecy and music). They also served Nemesis (goddess of retribution), drawing her chariot and helping her turn the wheel of fortune. The griffin in the center of this vessel rears up, perhaps to take flight, with Apollo riding on its back.

Text from the Getty Villa museum label.