Greek Terracotta Head of a Woman

Object Description

A finely modelled Greek, grey-coloured, terracotta head of a female figure. She is depicted with her wavy hair parted down the centre and wearing a smooth veil or headdress over the rest of her head. The figure presents a serene expression, with exquisitely carved facial features including almond eyes and strong, straight, nose.
The piece displays traces of original white slip and was potentially part of a larger statue. The item is likely from the region of Attica.

Date: Circa 5th – 2nd Century BC

Object History

Raphaël Collin (1850-1916) collection, Paris. The Senator William A. Clark (1839-1925) Collection, acquired from the above in 1911. Bequeathed to the Corcoran Gallery of Art, Washington D.C., 1925. Deaccessioned and gifted to the American University Museum at the Katzen Arts Center, Washington D.C., 2014. with Sands of Time Ancient Art, Washington D.C., 2021.

Object Condition

Good Condition. The back and base of the neck have received modern repair, of which the seams are visible. There is a horizontal crack over the bridge of the nose and a small perforation on the inner corner of the left eye. The surface of the figurine is uneven and speckled. Some traces of white pigment remain.

Object Details