Greek Hellenistic Pottery Votive Pomegranate

Ancient Greece, Hellenistic Period, ca. 3rd to 1st century BCE. A naturalistically rendered pomegranate. The shape of the fruit is spherical; its size is realistic, and details such as its fluted and spiked stem bring the piece to life. The pomegranate frequently occurs in ancient Greek art and mythology and its large edible seeds associated with life and rebirth are symbolic of Hera, goddess of women and childbirth. A wonderful votive that was once likely placed at a shrine or temple as an offering to the gods. Size: 3.6" Diameter x 3.9" H (9.1 cm x 9.9 cm); 6.2" H (15.7 cm) on included custom stand.

Perhaps the most famous mythological story about pomegranates comes from the kidnapping of Persephone by the god of the Underworld, Hades. The Fates decided that anyone who consumed food or drink in the Underworld was doomed to spend eternity there, so Hades tricked Persephone into eating six pomegranate seeds. Her mother, Demeter, goddess of fertility, mourned her during this period, which became autumn and winter. Perhaps this piece was dedicated to Persephone.

Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection; ex-private D.K. collection, New York, USA, acquired in the 2000s

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#169061
Condition Report: Repaired from a few large pieces with horizontal break line visible at center and restoration over other break lines. Small area of loss to base. Restoration to stem. Expected nicks and abrasions, commensurate with age. Otherwise, excellent with sparkling mica deposits throughout clay.