New research shows that women might be represented in Mycenaean iconography instead of men, changing the interpretation of Mycenaean society.
A recent analysis by Nicoletta Antognelli Michel of the Technical University of Darmstadt in Germany cited that a specific group of people depicted in a Mycenaean artwork known as The Sword Bearers are actually women. Previously, it was thought that the artifact depicted men due to certain symbols, but recent evidence suggests the contrary.
The recent discovery could change the lens through which ancient Greek researchers perceive ancient societies.
Women, not men, in Mycenaean iconography
Michel’s study focuses on The Sword Bearers, an ancient artwork from the Mycenaeans done on a krater. A krater is a sizeable two-handled vase typical of ancient Greece and usually depicts artwork that plays a significant role in deciphering their culture in modern times.
The figures in the artifact have long hair, bear swords, and wear large cloaks with a dotted design. Large cloaks and long hair are typical symbols of women in Mycenaean iconography. However, the figures were always believed to be men because they also possessed swords, historically male symbols. Michel’s analysis suggests the figures are women because the work may depict ceremonial rights rather than warfare.
“The symbolism of the weapon in these figures could be more connected to ritual power and female authority in religious ceremonies than a representation of violence or war,” said Michel in her groundbreaking study.
Michel cited women’s critical ceremonial roles in Aegean culture to back her claim. The significance of women in ceremonial practices makes it reasonable to believe that the work should be examined through the lens of ceremonial practice instead of the military lens through which it was previously studied.
Michel’s analysis heavily relies on what is known about Aegean culture and symbolism to decipher the mystery. The main reason she used what is known of Aegean culture is that gender roles in Mycenaean iconography have always been complex for researchers to unravel because of the various styles of figures in their artwork. Long hair and cloaks have been associated closely with women in Mycenaean iconography and in Aegean culture, providing a vital link.
Michel’s analysis also delves deeper into the lack of violence in The Sword Bearers. The figures are all depicted in peaceful scenes, further suggesting a separation from warfare. The chariots and processions depicted on the Krater further lend to a ceremonial depiction.
Michel’s research builds on prior studies by Louise Steel from the University of Wales. In her analysis, Steel also cited the long hair and cloak and the way the sword is positioned across the figures’ chests. If Michel and Steel are correct, this could change how researchers look at Mycenaean iconography in the future.
