Many of the worlds greatest art objects are inspired by the myths and legends of ancient cultures.

One of the most enduring legends is that of the lost city of Atlantis first mentioned by Plato in 360 BC.

Atlantis was said to be a naval power which had conquered many parts of Western Europe around 9600 BC.

The story ends with a failed attempt by Atlantis to invade the Greek city of Athens, after which the entire island sank into the ocean…

“One grievous day and night befell them, when the whole body of Atlantean warriors were swallowed up by the earth, and the island of Atlantis in like manner was swallowed up by the sea and vanished.”

In Plato’s myth, Poseidon had five pairs of male twin sons.

The eldest son Atlas was made rightful king of the entire island of Atlantis and the ocean was called the Atlantic in his honor.