Greek Archaic Terracotta Protome of a Lady

Ancient Greece, Archaic, ca. 650 to 480 BCE. A mold-made terracotta protome representing a female head, wearing a flared hat draped in a lengthy veil that falls to her shoulders atop a centrally parted coiffure of wavy hair. Her lovely face presents almond-shaped, generously lidded eyes, a relatively naturalistic nose, nicely contoured cheeks, a rounded chin, and that signature Archaic smile of full lips. Although the exact significance of this smile is unknown, scholars suggest that the ancient Greeks associated it with good health and wellbeing. The bust is further delineated with a subtly modeled chest and a long neck. Size: 4.625" W x 4.5" H (11.7 cm x 11.4 cm)

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: private Corpus Christi, Texas, USA estate collection, acquired 1960s to 1970s

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#165296
Condition Report: Fragment of a larger piece. A few abrasions and softening of detail, commensurate with age. Otherwise, very nice with lovely earthen deposits.