Bronzes of Siris

Greek metalwork

Written by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

June 22, 2026

Quick Summary

The "Bronzes of Siris" are 4th-century BCE Greek metalwork, specifically embossed shoulder straps from armor. These pieces are renowned for their high relief and skillful hammering, depicting a battle between Greeks and Amazons.1

Greek metalwork, particularly in bronze, was highly advanced. They excelled in casting, hammering, and chasing techniques. While bronze was primarily used for casting, it was also hammered into intricate designs for armor and vases. The Greeks often decorated their bronze pieces with silver or niello for added color and contrast. Bronze became a significant medium for monumental sculpture after the introduction of hollow casting around the mid-6th century BCE.1

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

2 Britannica Sources

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.

metalwork
Greece
…of a cuirass, called the “Bronzes of Siris” (4th century bce), are in exceedingly high relief and are beaten into form with wonderful skill with the hammer. The relief depicts the combat between the Greeks and the Amazons.
Read More
…of a cuirass, called the “Bronzes of Siris” (4th century bce), are in exceedingly high relief and are beaten into form with wonderful skill with the hammer. The relief depicts the combat between the Greeks and the Amazons.
Read More