Alexander Cambitoglou Books

Adonis, the beautiful youth born from the myrrh tree and loved by both Aphrodite and Persephone, is a well-known figure whose legend originated in the East and quickly spread to Greece and Italy. His cult in Athens dates back to the 5th century, yet artistic representations of him are surprisingly scarce. In South Italy, particularly from the early 4th century, his myth significantly influenced some of the greatest vase-painters, especially in Apulia. This richly illustrated analysis reveals that Adonis held a more prominent role in Magna Graecia than previously thought. Alexander Cambitoglou, an internationally recognized expert on South Italian Vase-painting, has co-authored essential works on the subject, including "The Red-figured Vases of Apulia" and its supplements. He has also published notable studies such as "Le peintre de Darius et son milieu" and "Céramique de Grande Grèce," along with recent contributions to the Australian CVA fascicules showcasing the Nicholson Museum's collection of Apulian pottery. His latest work, focusing on Adonis’ plants, has been translated into French and published as part of a series on ancient studies.

En Grande Grèce, le bel Adonis a largement inspiré les peintres, en majorité apuliens, qui ont illustré les différents épisodes du mythe, dont la remontée des Enfers, assimilable au renouveau de la végétation, thème en rapport avec la destination funéraire des vases. Hormis l’arbre à myrrhe, qui lui a donné naissance, trois plantes sont particulièrement associées à Adonis, le myrte, le laurier et le grenadier. Leur représentation est le sujet de cette étude.