The bull as a numismatic type in Magna Graecia, from Archaic to Late Classical Period

Abstract

This paper attempts to explore the potential cultural role of the bull as a numismatic motif in Magna Graecia from the Archaic to the Classical Period, focusing on how the bull associates with the cultural and political identities of different groups. It starts from the reverted bull of Sybaris, discussing the link between the bull and the collective Sybarite identity in the region through analyzing archeological, numismatic, and literary evidence. The paper then explores the cultural significance of various alterations of the bull in communities succeeding Sybaris after 510 BCE. This provides us a glimpse concerning how the Sybarites, after losing the city, understanding the Sybarite identity. The paper further turns to the butting bull, which became a constant emblem of a new political entity, Thurium. Regardless of the possible Sybarite influence, the butting bull seems to specifically link with the mercenary group. This link was further consolidated at the end of the fifth century when this type spread and rooted in Sicily with the establishment of mercenary settlements. This paper examines the distribution of the butting in Sicily from the end of the fifth century to the middle of the fourth century and discusses how this motif may link with the mercenary in each site. But gradually, the militaristic character of the butting bull was diluted as the mercenary settlement developed into a more proper state. In general, the bull as a numismatic type experienced a dynamic process of changes. These changes do not merely refer to stylistic and ichnographic change, but also the change in its cultural implications. It is thus a barometer reflecting the self-identification of diverse population groups and the interactions of various communities in Magna Graecia. I appreciate the help and concern from my committee members and my families, without which I cannot finish this paper.