The exhibition tells about the development in the antiquity of navigation, marine fisheries and understanding of marine deities.

Today, 21 September, the State Hermitage (The Menshikov Palace) presents "Sail Greece. Seafaring in the ancient world. " The exhibition tells about the development in the ancient era of navigation, marine fisheries, and understanding of marine deities, sponsors of seafarers or ruining them. Admiration for the sea and fear are reflected in works of art and household items at the time.

Among the exhibits showing the achievements of ancient shipbuilders, highlights a crater on the edge of the rim of which are floating warships sail. On a large fresco of Nymphea among numerous graffiti depicts a flotilla of merchant ships. Different types of vessels can be seen in intaglio and coins.

large section of the exhibition is devoted to images of the sea deities and fantastic monsters. Marble sculptures, painted vases, terracotta and bronze statuettes, jewelry illustrate the legends of Poseidon (Neptune), nereid, nymphs, hippocampus, and Triton.

Particular attention is paid to the marine fisheries of the ancient time and gifts Sea. Here are the fishing gear, equipment for their manufacture and repair. The exhibition also featured a special dish for serving fish dishes. In the works of art you can see images of various sea creatures. The popular motif of the conch used in their works by sculptors, jewelers, craftsmen, produced figured vessels of clay, glass and stone.

the active maritime trade in ancient times give an inscription Community Shipowners' coins many cities, packaging amphora, created specifically for the transport of goods by sea.

Seamanship in the ancient world was a complex old path, and had an enormous influence on the further development of navigation.

The exhibition runs until January 16, 2011.

Source: hermitagemuseum.org