Description:

Ancient Greece, Western Greece, Archaic, ca. 650 to 480 BCE. A mold-made terracotta protome representing a female head, wearing a himation drawn up and over her head, with a scalloped fringe of bangs and long wavy locks elegantly framing her face and ears - a lovely face with open, almond-shaped, lidded eyes, a relatively naturalistic nose, nicely contoured cheeks, a rounded chin, and that signature Archaic smile. Although the exact significance of this smile is unknown, scholars suggest that the ancient Greeks associated it with good health and well being. The bust is further delineated with a subtly modeled chest and a long neck. Size: 3.1" W x 4.1" H (7.9 cm x 10.4 cm); 6.5" H (16.5 cm) on included custom stand.

Protomes like this example demonstrate these developing naturalistic leanings of Greek visual culture as well, with that Archaic smile signifying life and representing the Archaic ideal. They would have been dedicated in an ancient temple to the local deity, perhaps to thank the god or goddess, or to assist in making a request.

Provenance: East Coast collection, New York Gallery, New York City, New York, USA, acquired before 2010

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#179477

  • Condition: Professionally repaired with restoration; all done very well and barely visible. Expected nicks and abrasions as shown, but otherwise very nice presentation with ample remaining detail and liberal earthen deposits throughout.

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July 7, 2023 7:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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