Statuette of a Goddess
Date: late 2nd- early 3rd century
Dimensions:
H: 9 5/8 in. (24.4 cm)
Medium: cast and repoussé silver
Place of Origin: Ancient Rome, from Syria or Lebanon
Classification: Sculpture
Credit Line: Purchased with funds from the Libbey Endowment, Gift of Edward Drummond Libbey
Object number: 1971.131
Label Text:This hollow-cast silver statuette is one of the largest ancient Roman devotional figures to survive in precious metal. The diadem suggests the woman is a goddess, possibly Juno, Fortuna, or Venus, although she has lost the attributes that would have identified her. Her lowered left arm may have supported a ship’s rudder, palm branch, or cornucopia. Her head is turned to contemplate her cupped right hand, where the fingers curl to hold a small object, probably fruit. The owner of the figure likely added the gold jewelry as offerings of gratitude. If you look closely, you can see that her bracelets are decorated, probably by twisting the gold wire.
DescriptionCast and repoussé silver with gold necklace and bracelets.
On view
In Collection(s)