Greek Charioteer Scarf Crêpe de Chine Scarf

DESIGNER'S NOTES

A striking Fox & Chave silk crêpe de chine scarf with an image of a woman charioteer and pattern in the typical terracotta and black of Greek vases.

The charioteer is likely a depiction of Hippodamia, daughter of Oenomaus, and the queen of Pisa. Hippodamia means 'she who masters horses'.

The mythology of Hippodamia is somewhat grim. Her father, King Oenomaus of Pisa, feared a prophecy that foretold his death at the hands of his future son-in-law. Any suitor who sought her hand was challenged to a chariot race, in which victory would grant them her marriage, while defeat meant execution.

By the time Pelops, son of King Tantalus of Lydia, sought her hand, Eighteen suitors had already met their demise, and Oenomaus had displayed their severed heads on the wooden columns of his palace as a warning.

Pelops determined to ensure his victory by sabotaging his opponents vehicle, by enlisting the help of Poseidon, who provided a chariot pulled by winged horses, and by bribing Oenomaus's charioteer, Myrtilus to assist his victory in exchange for the first night with his new bride.

Oenomaus was killed in the race, with Pelops throwing Myrtlius off a cliff before his offer could be fulfilled.

COLOURS

STYLING

Wear your Fox & Chave crêpe de chine silk scarf in a variety of ways from the French Knot: Fold scarf in half, loop around neck, pull ends through loop, to the Infinity Knot: Loop scarf twice, tie ends in knot. More scarf styling ideas are available in this wonderful How to Tie a Scarf book.