Roman Statuette of the Goddess Iphigenia
1st-2nd century AD. A bronze figure of the goddess Iphigenia in active pose with right hand raised to the brow and left hand supporting her weight, legs bent to the rear; the hair dressed in a chignon, torso bare and thighs draped with a folded loincloth; plain band to each upper arm; mounted on a custom-made stand. 1 kg total, 21.5cm including stand (8 1/2"). Property of a London gentleman; acquired from a Mayfair gallery; formerly with Boisgirard Antonini, Paris, sale 11, lot 57. In Greek mythology, Iphigenia was a princess of Mycenae, daughter of King Agamemnon and Queen Clytemnestra. In the story of the Trojan war, Agamemnon offends the goddess Artemis and she prevents the Greek troops from reaching the siege of Troy until Agamemnon kills his daughter as a sacrifice. In some traditions Iphigenia dies at the port of Aulis, while in others Artemis delivers her.
Very fine condition. Rare.
Estimate: 8000 - 10000