Greek Terracotta Sculptured Head

With long narrow neck developing to a fusiform body and flared foot. 72 grams, 12 cm



From the collection of a Cambridge, UK, gentleman, by direct descent from his father, who acquired the items in London in circa 1960.

Modelled in the round standing figure with palla draped over the left shoulder and from the hips, extending to calf-length; the head with aquiline nose and dimpled chin modelled with a wreath of large leaves around the brow forming a corona; exaggerated eyes left blank to accept silver inserts; left arm bent, hand holding an incense-holder with cruciform design; right arm extended at shoulder-height with phiale mesomphalos offering dish; socket beneath left foot and screw-threaded post beneath right, repairs to both lower legs. 1.23 kg, 28.4 cm high



Sotheby's, New York, 17 December 1996, no.79. Private collection, New York, USA. Accompanied by copies of the relevant Sotheby's catalogue pages. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.13355-255463.

The figure is probably a devotee or priest of Diana preparing to make ritual observances with the offering plate and incense burner. A group of similar figures was recovered from the shallows of Lake Nemi south of Rome, close to the site of the Temple of Diana.

With a long, narrow neck and a chamfered mouth, developing to a fusiform body and a flared foot; three shallow footed dishes, one with voided centre. 93 grams total, 48-90 mm



From a UK private collection since at least 1946. Property of a West London, UK, gentleman.