Ninnion Tablet

Question 1

When is the Ninnion tablet dated to?

Answer 1

400-300 BC

Question 2

What is the style of the Ninnion tablet?

Answer 2

Red figure plaque

Question 3

What does the Ninnion tablet depict?

Answer 3

Cult of Eleusis- initiates, led by Iacchus or Hierophant figure, seated goddesses Demeter and Persephone

Question 4

What is the significance of the Ninnion tablet?

Answer 4

Key visual source for the reconstruction of the ritual taking place at the Eleusinian Mysteries- secret so we know little else

Question 5

What does the Ninnion tablet reveal about the Eleusinian mysteries?

Answer 5

Inside- shows pillar in top left corner; nighttime setting- torches; male and female initiates; initiates carry torches and wear myrtle crowns; there is a box of Eleusinian objects; presence of Demeter and Kore- may be metaphorical, symbolic or real

Question 6

How are figures shown to be women in red figure plaques like the Ninnion tablet?

Answer 6

White skin- always inside

Question 7

What was the purpose of the Ninnion tablet?

Answer 7

A votive offering to the two goddesses- found within the sanctuary

Question 8

What is a potential issue with the Ninnion tablet?

Answer 8

If it’s depicting mysteries how is it not sacrilege? Suggests maybe the key, secret details are excluded