More than gold: from laurel wreath to shiny cups
‘Why winners of (sports) competitions win a cup? Where does that come from?’ That was the question from a listener of the Radio 1 programme ‘Are there any questions?’ You could find the answer in our museum’s permanent exhibition. Take a virtual look.
Today, we know trophies mainly as shiny cups or medals. But celebrating our sports heroes that way is a tradition that dates back to the glorious times of ancient Greece. The story of the trophy is a story of honour, prestige and evolution.
Competing for eternal glory & a crown
During the Ancient Games, it was not about material prizes, but honour. Originally the winners were rewarded with a laurel crown, a palm of triumph or a seal ribbon.
As a winning athlete, you not only obtained the protection of the gods, but also recognition by the people. You were worshipped almost as a god. Your name went down in history, your life was sung about in odes and songs. Moreover, champions enjoyed privileges in their home region, such as tax exemption or a prominent social position. In Athens in the 6th century BC, winners even received a generous sum of money, with which they could support themselves for about a decade.
Prizes in the Panathenean Games: precious amphorae
There were sporting events where material prizes were awarded, such as the Panathenean Games in Athens. Here, athletes could win amphorae: beautifully decorated jars with images of the goddess Athena on one side and a sports scene on the other.
The amphorae were filled with precious body oil, an essential at a time when athletes played sports naked and used oil to condition their bodies.
The rebirth of trophies in modern times
With the first modern sporting competitions, organisers start harking back to the customs of Classical Antiquity. The laurel crown made a comeback, and amphorae were replaced by magnificent cups. These trophies, often made of silver or other precious metals, were works of art in themselves. They were designed by famous silversmiths.
Later, medals and diplomas, inspired by reward systems from the military and education, also made their appearance. The tradition of rewarding deserving sportsmen in this way is relatively young. What is striking is that it often depicts the goddess Niké and sports scenes from antiquity.
Sports awards today: multifaceted and symbolic
In our time, sports awards have taken many forms.
Although cups are often symbolic these days, their significance remains great. Behind those shiny trophies are huge cash prizes and irreplaceable honour. Yet the cult around sports heroes and financial rewards is not a new phenomenon; it is as old as sport itself.
From laurel crowns and amphorae to cups and medals, sports awards tell a story of age-old traditions and human desire for recognition. They are a symbol not only of achievement, but also of the indestructible power of ambition and dedication. Whether an ancient champion or a modern sports hero, the brilliance of victory remains the same.
Listen to Radio 1’s ‘Are there any Questions’ here (in dutch)
