The Dance of the Curetes

306, Lot: 267. Estimate $200. Sold for $450. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

CILICIA, Seleucia ad Calycadnum. Severus Alexander. AD 222-235. Æ (28mm, 12.86 g, 6h). Radiate and draped bust right; c/m: ΔO monogram within triangular incuse / Infant Zeus seated facing on throne, head left, raising right hand; around him, three Curetes, each wearing military outfit, striking shields with swords. SNG France 1004 (same dies); SNG Levante ≠; for c/m: Howgego 670. Fine, dark brown patina, earthen deposits, reverse die cud.

The Curetes share some of the attributes of the Corybantes, dancing divinities associated with the worship of Cybele, but their specific role in Greek mythology was to serve as the protectors of the infant Zeus while he was hidden away on Crete, safe from his murderous father Cronus. Their militant dancing, accompanied by the clashing of swords on shields, drowned out the cries of the infant. The Curetes’ dance was later re-enacted by young men at Greek festivals and games.