An historical and descriptive account of the famous collection of antique gems possessed by the late Prince Poniatowski; Accompanied by poetical ... an essay on ancient gems and gem-engraving - Softcover
Synopsis
This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1841 Excerpt: ... the Grecian Minerva), and as the Romans adopted the custom of placing the figure in the vestibules, or pronaoi, of their temples, that the Sphinx is a religious representation of the human mind, and of its connexion with the divinity. No. 726. The same subject. APOLLONIDES. Carnelian. No. 727. Tydeus sparing the life of Maaon. GNAIOS. Sardonyx. This subject relates to one of the incidents connected with the famous Theban war. When Polynices, being refused a participation in the sovereignty of Thebes by his brother Eteocles, fled to Argos and married the daughter of Adrastus the king, it was determined to restore him to his right. Accordingly Tydeus, the father of the great Diomede, who had married another daughter of Adrastus, was despatched as ambassador to negotiate between the brothers. Tydeus, having failed in his mission, was waylaid on his return by fifty hired assassins. He slew them all except one, whom he allowed to return to convey the news to the king. This is one of the bravest achievements recorded in ancient history. The following passages, from Homer (Iliad, book iv.) and Statius (T/zebais, book ii.), fully explain the story. The elaborate description by Statius has been much admired by critics. Stung with the shame, within the winding way, To bar his passage fifty warriors lay; Two heroes led the secret squadron on, Maaon the fierce, and hardy Lycophon; Those fifty slaughter'd in the gloomy vale, He spared but one to bear the dreadful tale. Such Tydeus was, and such his martial fire, Gods! how the son degenerates from the sire! No words the godlike Diomed return'd, But heard respectful, and in secret burn'd." Homna. " Thus anger'd, Tydeus left the guilty town, And seem'd to make his brother's ...
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