Who sat on a stone seat bound by snakes in the Underworld?

The figure who sat on a stone seat bound by snakes in the Underworld is Pirithous. In Greek mythology, Pirithous was a close friend of Theseus and is known for his adventurous pursuits. One of the most notable tales involving Pirithous is his descent into the Underworld with Theseus, where they attempted to abduct Persephone, the queen of the Underworld.

As a punishment for their audacity and disrespect towards the gods, both men were trapped; Pirithous found himself bound to a stone seat in the depths of Hades, encircled by snakes. This imagery of being bound by serpents symbolizes his eternal struggle and serves as a cautionary tale about overreaching in one's desires.

The significance of this story is deep-rooted in themes of friendship and loyalty, as well as the consequences of attempting to usurp the power of the gods, making Pirithous's story memorable in the context of Greek mythology.