Tauroctony from Sárkeszi

TNMM 767

Rectangular limestone slab with a rounded top, dating from the end of the 2nd century AD, measuring 48.5 x 56 x 10.5 cm. The centrepiece of the slab is an arched niche depicting the scene of Mithras slaying the bull. In the image, the god is dressed in long trousers and a long sleeved tunic over which is draped a chlamys fastened with a round-shaped brooch. On his head he wears a Phrygian cap and is depicted looking upwards.

Mithras is flanked by two figures: Cautes, slightly to the right, and Cautopates with crossed legs. Both figures are dressed in oriental clothing and each holds an Amazon shield to their left. Above this central scene, in the picture zone, are the busts of the deities Sol and Luna, with two protomes in front of each. The protome in front of Sol shows a raven. Also interspersed among the deities in this representation are four altars and three trees.