ostracon ancient art
catalogue

Greek Sicilian Writing Figure, Archaic Period, around 500 BC

Rare seated figure with writing tablets folded open on the lap. The writing right hand rests on the tablet, which is held with the other.

The small face with a prominent nose, the eyes and the mouth indistinct and originally painted. Curls frame the forehead and braids fall along the neck.

The figure wears a skin-tight tunic that might have been originally painted. The edge of a cloak covers the lower chest. Broken below the writing tablet at the level of the knees.

For the limestone statuette of a male votary with a scroll, cf. acc. no. 74.51.2695 in the New York Metropolitan Museum database.

Lower legs missing. Bridge of the nose with small chipping. Surface slightly worn with soil deposits. On old custom stand.

H. 10.4 cm (4.1 in)
H. with stand 18.3 cm (7.2 in)

Ex private Chicago estate, acquired in the early 1960s.

1850 USD