Caria. Knidos circa 500 BC.
Diobol AR

10 mm, 1,32 g

Head of roaring lion to right / Archaic head of Aphrodite to right.

Very Fine

SNG Kayhan 817; SNG Copenhagen 249 -250.

Aphrodite, the captivating goddess of love and beauty in ancient Greek mythology, holds a prominent place among the Twelve Olympian deities. Legend tells of her mysterious birth, emerging fully formed and breathtakingly beautiful from the sea foam near Cyprus, an event immortalized in art as the "Birth of Venus." Born of divine lineage, Aphrodite is often regarded as the daughter of Zeus, king of the gods, and Dione, a goddess associated with femininity. Alternatively, some myths describe her origin as arising from the castrated genitals of Uranus, the sky god. Aphrodite is characterized by irresistible beauty and is often symbolically linked to doves, swans, roses, and myrtles, with doves specifically representing love and peace. Her romantic entanglements are a recurring theme, most notably with Ares, the god of war, resulting in the birth of children, including Eros (Cupid), the god of love. Aphrodite's worship extended across various cults in ancient Greece, with dedicated centers in Cyprus, Corinth, and Cythera, involving rites and festivals that celebrated love, beauty, and fertility. The myth of Eros and Psyche explores themes of love and trust, emphasizing the challenges faced by the mortal princess Psyche. Additionally, the renowned Venus de Milo statue is often associated with Aphrodite, symbolizing classical beauty and grace. Aphrodite's influence extends beyond mythology into art, literature, and philosophy. She remains a timeless symbol of love's potency, the embodiment of beauty, and a muse inspiring artistic expression throughout history. From ancient tales to timeless masterpieces, Aphrodite's legacy endures as a testament to the enduring power of love and the pursuit of beauty.