The centaurs of Greek mythology were wild and unpredictable creatures, often drunken and violent.
An exception was the centaur Chiron. He was immortal, unlike other centaurs, and was famous for his wisdom and skill in healing. He was asked to tutor several of the greatest of Greek heroes, including Hercules. Years later, Hercules visited Pholus, and since he was thirsty he persuaded Pholus to open a jar of wine that was the common property of the centaurs. The other centaurs smelled the wine and came running. A fight broke out between Hercules and the centaurs. Chiron took no part in the fight, but was accidentally wounded by Hercules with a poisoned arrow. As an immortal Chiron could not die but, lived on in
terrible pain. Eventually Chiron, in order to be relieved of the unrelenting torment of the wound inflicted by Hercules, gave his immortality to the Titan Prometheus allowing himself to die. Hercules then came and freed Prometheus. Zeus acknowledged Chiron's sacrifice by placing him in the night sky as the constellation Sagittarius.
Here are some more centaur pictures, from various sources. In some cases there is a larger version to see if you click on the picture.
Two more great pictures - but I can't remember where they came from! If you recognise them, let me know so that I can give a credit (and link if available) - click on them for larger version
This one is available as a print from Larry Elmore
