To all appearances, Dionysius II was very rich and comfortable, with all the luxuries money could buy, tasteful clothing and jewelry, and delectable food. He even had court flatterers to inflate his ego. One of these was the official court sycophant, Damocles. Damocles used to make comments to the king about his wealth and luxurious life. One day, when Damocles complimented the tyrant on his abundance and power, Dionysius turned to Damocles and said, "If you think I'm so lucky, how would you like to try out my life?"
The painted platter shows what happens after Damocles eagerly took up the ruler's offer. He was stuck on the throne underneath a sword that was suspended by so fine a thread, it was in imminent danger of breaking and, in this painting, stabbing him in the heart. Other illustrations have it aimed at his head.
Legend or not, Damocles must have survived, quaking in his own rundown shoes.
