ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the possible rationale behind the continuation of the Apollo type until the reign of Seleukos IV. It argues that Antiochos II adopted the imagery of his father in an attempt to reinforce his own legitimacy by the continuation of a particularly Seleukid pattern. Furthermore, it discusses how both Antiochos Hierax and Seleukos II used competing images of Apollo to define their own claim to the Seleukid throne. It also notes that while Seleukos II was eventually victorious militarily, the traditional iconography adopted by his rival and brother was restored by his descendants, and that this stressed the importance of iconographic continuity with Antiochos I. The discussion then turns to Seleukos III–Seleukos IV and demonstrates that even during the period of Seleukid resurgence under Antiochos III and regrouping under Seleukos IV, the familial patron remains relatively unchanged. A brief analysis of how the usurpers, Achiaos and Molon, abandoned Seleukid imagery demonstrates the significance of the status of being a Seleukid or not to potential claimants to the diadem. This balance demonstrates the power of the image created by Antiochos I for the early Seleukid house and raises significant questions as to Antiochos IV’s motives in breaking with this tradition.
