Discover the fresco of the myth of Pentheus, found in the House of the Vettii in Pompeii. This fresco represents the tragic story of Agave who, in the grip of her mystical fury, mistakes her son Pentheus for a ferocious beast and kills him. 

Agave was the most famous of the Bacchae (followers of the cult of Dionysus, god of wine) also known as Maenads ("the mad ones"), generally depicted naked with a crown of ivy on his head. They used to bring with them musical instruments with which they punctuated their dances during the festivals in honor of Dionysus: the Bacchanalia. The culmination of the ceremony coincided with the ritual meal, during which the Maenads, in an attempt to assimilate the god, tore an animal and devoured it alive.

The myth narrates that Agave, in the throes of mystical fury, mistook her son Penteus for a ferocious beast and devoured him.

Characteristics

• Material: Canvas
• Frame: Wood
• Dimensions: 35 x 45 x 4 cm (13.78 x 17.72 x 1.57 inches)
• Artisan product made in Italy

Perfect for enriching your collection or as a gift for lovers of ancient art.

Historical Curiosities

The Casa dei Vettii is renowned for the quality of its frescoes. The myth of Pentheus, son of Agave, is one of the most dramatic stories in Greek mythology, depicted with great mastery in this fresco. The Bacchantes, followers of the cult of Dionysus, used to participate in frenetic rituals during the Bacchanalia, often culminating in acts of ritual violence.

This fresco is more than just a decoration; it is a piece of history that celebrates the mythology and art of Pompeii. Add it to your collection and be inspired by the beauty of antiquity.