Larissa Coin Pendant

The kingdom of Thessaly occupied territory in the northern part of mainland Greece. Larissa was the capital. The Thessalians were known as expert horse breeders and were highly regarded as cavalry troops. The Thessalian cavalry formed elite troops in the armies of Philip II and Alexander III (the Great) of Macedon, with whom they were closely allied. The bull on the obverse relates to an athletic contest that prefigures the bullfight. The bull is a symbol of male fertility.

Thesally, Larissa. 430-410 BC. Silver drachm. Obverse: Youth restraining bull. Reverse: Bridled horse prancing right. Hand textured 22kt mounting.