Issue: Greece Phineas and the Harpies The Boreads in Pursuit Stamp
Type: Stamp
Number of Stamps: 1
Denominations: 120 Dr,
Issue Date: 1995
Issued By: Greece Post
Phineas and the Harpies
The scene recalls the story of Phineas, the blind king and prophet who was tormented by the Harpies. These winged creatures repeatedly took away his food and left him unable to eat. When the Argonauts reached Phineas they learned about his suffering and agreed to help him. The winged brothers Zetes and Calais, known as the Boreads, took responsibility for driving the Harpies away. Their ability to fly made them natural pursuers in this dramatic episode. The stamp captures this legendary moment with Phineas seated below while the winged figures appear above him.
The Boreads in Pursuit
Zetes and Calais were the sons of Boreas, the North Wind. They were among the Argonauts and were famous for their wings and great speed. When the Harpies appeared they immediately chased them through the air. According to the tradition recorded by Apollonius Rhodius they pursued the creatures as far as the Strophades Islands. The chase became one of the memorable episodes of the Argonautic adventure. The colorful stamp presents the movement of the flying characters in a simple illustrated style. It combines mythology with an artistic interpretation of one of ancient Greece’s best known heroic stories.
Hermes and the Ancient Greek Legend
Hermes is also connected with the conclusion of the episode. In some versions of the tradition Hermes intervenes and prevents the Boreads from killing the Harpies because they were servants of Zeus. Another tradition gives this role to Iris. The Harpies then promise that they will no longer trouble Phineas. The grateful prophet later helps the Argonauts by giving them important advice for their journey. This 120 drachma stamp preserves that fascinating combination of characters and events. It is a beautiful example of Greek philately using ancient mythology to celebrate the country’s cultural heritage and legendary past.
