Lion Griffin (Fragment of a Rhyton), Black Sea region, 5th - 4th century B.C. Gilded silver. H. 11.0 cm, W. 5.5 cm, Depth 4.2 cm. © Miho Museum

This silver lion griffin would have been attached to the end of a rhyton, and it is thought to have had a spout in its now damaged chest. The head has mountain goat-like horns and a bird-like decoration between the horns. Almond-shaped motifs decorate above the eyes, cheeks and above the upper jaw. These are all elements of Achaemenid period style. The griffin was respected as a protective sacred animal, and thus frequently appeared on Persian architecture, jewelry and vessels. This is a superb example of the type.