Roman, Imperial Period, Antonine, ca. mid to late 2nd century CE. A beautiful bust of a woman with her hair parted at the center as was popular during the Antonine period. The marble itself is very pale in hue, with limited grey bands through it. Her face is serene, with large eyes drilled to have deep pupils, a delicate nose, and a small mouth, slightly turned up at the corners. Her hair is carved to be in twisted, thick strips that flow from a deep central part, with two small curves of hair at her ears that rest against her cheeks. The rest of her hair is wrapped up in a loose bun at the back of her head. She wears a peplos, a tunic worn by women, that is fastened at both shoulders with small round brooches. Tied in a loose knot at her chest is a himation which is also draped around her shoulders. Size: 6.7" W x 12.6" H (17 cm x 32 cm); 13.9" H (35.3 cm) on included custom stand.
Below this, the sculpture swoops inward to a narrow, squared-off plinth atop a round pedestal foot. The front of the plinth may have once had an inscription attached, perhaps in bronze, as there are two incised grooves on its front face. A beautifully sculpted, lifelike memorial!
This piece has been searched against the Art Loss Register database and has been cleared. The Art Loss Register maintains the world's largest database of stolen art, collectibles, and antiques.
Provenance: East Coast collection, New York Gallery, New York City, New York, USA, acquired 2011; ex-Gorny & Mosch, Munich, Germany, sale 198, June 29, 2011, lot 14
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#146829
Condition
Repaired at back of head and neck/upper back from approximately three pieces. Nose may have been repaired but it is very difficult to tell. Light deposits on surface and a few small chips, nicks, and scratches commensurate with age. With beautiful preservation of detail.