The artifact known as 'The Capitoline Tensa' housed at the Capitoline Museum is an Etruscan ceremonial chariot dating back to the sixth century B.C. This significantly preserved artifact is made with a fusion of bronze and wood. It is built in an elliptical structure supported by two wheels, a design quintessential to its historical context, reflecting Assyrian and Eastern influences prevalent during that period.
The chariot is adorned with multiple narrative panels using the repoussé technique, each panel depicting different mythological narratives. The principal panel showcases the mythical battle between Typhon, the monstrous entity, and Zeus, the distinguished Olympian god. Additional elements include mythological creatures like griffins and sirens exhibited in high relief on the side panels.
The central part of the chariot shows a riveting human scene, wherein the hero, Heracles, confronts mermaid-esque entities symbolizing temptation. This curvilinear depiction delineates the dichotomy between human and divine, a common theme in Etruscan art.
The craftsmanship extends to the chariot's fittings and pole, with meticulous motifs symbolizing vitality, sun discs, and other heavenly entities. References to the Greek 'Black-figure' tradition can be identified within the representation, combining two-dimensional silhouettes with intricate decorative details.
The rear side of the chariot presents the narrative of Bellerophon, the mythological hero, defeating Chimera. This intricately detailed depiction includes personifications of divinities, aligning with Etruscan religious customs and adding historical context.
From a scholarly perspective, this chariot is deemed as a vital artifact for studying the Etruscan civilization. Based on various sources, it is hypothesized that this chariot was intended for ceremonial purposes, rather than combat or transportation. As a testament to the aesthetic expertise of the Etruscans, this chariot displays a myriad of detailed narratives, providing a rich understanding of this ancient civilization.
