ostracon ancient art
catalogue

Etruscan Votive Profile Head, 3rd/2nd Century BC

Terracotta head of a veiled woman with well delineated features. Lips and tip of the nose squeezed sideward when the head was taken from the mold.

The hairdo arranged in separate strands ending in drop-shaped curls that cover the ear.

One issue with Etruscan votive offerings was the disposable space in the temples. From time to time votives were ritually buried in properly arranged repositories called botroi.

Half-heads were a space saving solution as they could be placed in profile against the wall.

Reconstituted from three fragments. Shards near the vent hole missing. Fine condition.

H. 24 cm (9.4 in)

Swiss private collection

1750 USD