GREEK ATTIC MARBLE HEAD OF A WOMAN
Early 4th century BC
height (head) cm 31; height (stand) cm 12; length cm 17 x 17

Larger than life-size Attic Pentelic marble female head, perhaps of a goddess. The oval is elongated, with full cheeks and round chin. Eyes and eyelids are delicately molded, creating the effect of a deep gaze and a feeble smile. The forehead is framed by fine and soft locks tied back, that allow us to glimpse the ears. The face is partially damaged by ancient injuries: an ancient restoration made on back and top of the head is still visible through the traces of the gradina tool (or tooth chisel) and the oxide of an iron pin. The state of preservation is impressive, similar to that of the Elgin Marbles. Provided with a museal stand.

Published. Oliver Forge, Brendan Lynch: The Ancient World. From Mesopotamia to Coptic Egypt, London 30 June - 7 July 2017, n. 37.

Provenance. English private collection; purchased from Godson & Coles in 2002.