Page:History of Art in Sardinia, Judæa, Syria and Asia Minor Vol 2.djvu/158

 142 A History of Art in Sardinia and Jud^a. two figures are on the right of this, in the centre of a small hollow (Fig. 321) ; the taller recalls the second figure of the main group (Fig. 313), whilst the other Is akin to Fig. 314; and we find it again, this time with a winged disc (in bas-relief D, Plate VIII., first figure). Both sets are distinguished by similarity of cos- tume, arms, and long, curved staffs. The god (Fig. 321) holds under his arm the smaller figure, in an attitude of solicitous regard ; In his right hand, stretched towards the man-bodied lion, is a symbolic puppet-god, intended to recall the name of the deity. On the wall behind this tall mitred god is an cediculum, sur- mounted by a winged sphere or solar disc, exhibiting the same arrangement of Ionian columns and probable divine bulls (nearly obliterated), as in the preceding temple, save that the central genie Is replaced by a phallus. Nor should the cap of the deity, with ring device, be left unnoticed. The conclusion to be reached from this succint analysis Is that we are brought here face to face with the principal sanctuary of Pterium, perhaps of Pteria. Its disposition — the passages, for example, which connect the two chambers, the smaller being hidden away in the depth of the rock — is suggestive of an oracle. The main recess Is spacious enough to have admitted of a double procession, as figured on Its walls, albeit reduced and simplified. The local deities were supposed to dwell amidst this convulsed, wild alpine scenery, in the gloomy shade of sacred woods. Here, twice or three times a year, festivals, corresponding with the changes of nature, were celebrated by the whole population. Clothed in gay apparel, the Pterians issued from the city portals in long files, headed by their princes, priests, and priestesses. With them they slowly ascended the winding path which led to the high place. Whilst the chiefs of the nation performed the sacred rites within the precincts, externally the multitude lounged about on the verdant slopes overlooking the stream, spending the day eating and drinking, with due accompaniment of dancing and music. It was a panegyria of the kind I have often witnessed in the East, the scene of action being always some secluded, picturesque spot on the bank of a stream, amidst cascades and a wealth of greenery. Such festivities partook of a national character, so that people would repair from great distances to join In them. Besides plying their own different trades, it gave them an opportunity to