Supplementum Epigraphicum Graecum: 38.776

STATUE OF PHILETAIROS AT DELOS

Greek text: IG_11.4.1105
Provenance: Delos
Date: mid 3rd century B.C.
Format: see key to translations

These verses were inscribed on the base of a monument in Delos, which was probably set up after the death of Philetairos. Although it is known that Philetairos gave assistance to Kyzikos when that city was at war with the Galatians and others (see OGIS_748), this is the only known reference to a victory won by Philetairos himself.

The translation is taken from P. Bing & J.S. Bruss, "Brill's Companion to Hellenistic Epigram", pp.8-11 ( Google Books ). For another English translation, see M.M. Austin, "The Hellenistic World from Alexander to the Roman Conquest", no. 228 ( Google Books ).

O blessed Philetairos, you captivate both divine singers
and dexterous sculptors, lord.
These proclaim your mighty power, the ones in hymns,
the others by showing the skill of their hands,
how once joining in swift combat with those ill-omened warriors, the Gauls,
you drove them far beyond your own borders,
on account of which, these choice works by Nikeratos
Sosikrates dedicated to you in sea-girt Delos,
a monument to be the subject of song for men of the future. Not even
Hephaistos himself would disdain the art upon seeing you.

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