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Gifts for the Classical Connoisseur: Odysseus

Let the hero of Homer's epic poem inspire a treasure trove of seaworthy finds.

November 15, 2024

you may remember The odyssey from middle-school English class; if not, let us refresh your memory: Homer’s ancient Greek epic charts the tragic events that dogged Odysseus on his journey home to Ithaca from the Trojan War. In a series of soul-crushing tests doled out by the Greek gods, Odysseus fights off a Cyclops and resists sirens’ songs, knowing that he will one day be rewarded for his perseverance and valor. While there’s no easy way out for Odysseus, you can give delight to the heroes, heroines, classicists, and seafaring adventurers in your own life with these timeless and inspired gifts. 

Greek Amati Ship kit 

This model ship will test your patience, but the result is well worth it.

$187, adamamodelships.com

Sea Life Hand-Engraved Crystal Jug by Artel

Add an oceanic accent to your table.

$515, abask.com

The Odyssey by Homer

Robert Fagles’s translation is the most renowned and this edition comes with painterly illustrations by Grahame Baker-Smith.

$100, foliosociety.com

Malvasia Seller of White Grasse Vase by Patrizia Italiano

Celebrate the ancient pleasures of the grape with this ceramic vase that doubles an ice bucket, cachepot, or simply a sculpture.  

$515, artemest.com

Green Guatemalan Marble Column Vase by FiaMmettaV Home

A reminder that buildings may fall, but something can always be rebuilt from the rubble.

$660, artemest.com

Ancient Greek Coin Necklace by Eli Halili

Wear Zeus’s head (in a 4th-century BC coin) around your neck to remind yourself that nature is stronger than man.

$10,000, elihalili.com

Homeria SandalS

A good fisherman’s sandal is essential for traversing slippery rocks.

$325, ancient-greek-sandals.com

The Karavi Cardigan by Suzie Kondi

This nautical sweater in fire-engine red is sure to catch a rescuer’s attention if you get lost at sea. 

$1,695, suziekondi.com

Urbino Iron Candelabra

Strong and simple, this candelabra will light up the dark winter nights.

$275, ilbucovita.com

Twisted Horn Serving Set by Haas

The monsters may be strong, but my love of salad is stronger.

$295, l-objet.com

Blue Splatterware Bowl By Montegranero

Like a mini (albeit tamer) Charybdis. 

From $45, ilbucovita.com

Recycled Glass Salt Dish by La Riccia

As clear as the water of the Mediterranean Sea.

$62, ilbucovita.com

Reversi Game Set by Pinetti

A game honestly played is a game with no loser.

$2,155, artemest.com

Neptune Bowl by L’Objet

Just don’t fill it with the fruit of the lotus plant.

$1,400, l-objet.com

Navigare Placemats by JOSEF FRANK

Learn about the rich history of sailing ships across centuries and regions.

$144, svenskttenn.com

Handmade Osteria Fish Tray by ArCucci

A meal shared with family makes it all worthwhile in the end.

$100, artemest.com


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