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REFERENCE: GT2004

A Greek Terracotta Protome of a Goddess, Classical Period,
ca. 5th century BCE

Sale priceCHF 8,558.00

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Finely molded with most of the original white slip remaining, the goddess wears a chiton, her lovely face with a serene expression, featuring large almond eyes, her full lips pleasingly arched in the archaic smile, the strong chin dimpled, and her regal nose is straight and sharp. Below the low flaring polos, her hair is beautifully arranged; centrally parted, it is swept up at the sides to fall in long ribbed plaits to her shoulders.

Protomoi are common, not in graves, but in votive deposits and sanctuaries. Their Archaic presence at a site does not prove an exclusive devotion to a preferred divinity but is rather evidence of trade patterns. As is the case with this example, protomoi was usually supplied with suspension holes for hanging, either inside shrines or perhaps on trees in sanctuaries.

Published: J. Eisenberg, Art of the Ancient World, 2006, no. 76.

Condition: Complete with professional rejoining and minor cosmetic overpainting, the protome is in very good condition overall with excellent remaining polychrome. With museum-quality custom mount. A truly lovely piece.

Dimensions: Height: 7 7/8 inches (20 cm)

Provenance: Ex private French collection; American private collection, acquired from Royal-Athena in November 2006.
A Greek Terracotta Protome of a Goddess, Classical Period, <br><em>ca. 5th century BCE</em>
A Greek Terracotta Protome of a Goddess, Classical Period,
ca. 5th century BCE
Sale priceCHF 8,558.00