Openwork hairnet with medallion, Hellenistic, 200–150 B.C.
Greek, Ptolemaic
Gold; H. 2 3/8 in. (6 cm), Diam. 3 9/16 in. (9 cm), Diam. of disk 2 3/16 in. (5.5 cm)
Gift of Norbert Schimmel, 1987 (1987.220)
Greek, Ptolemaic
Gold; H. 2 3/8 in. (6 cm), Diam. 3 9/16 in. (9 cm), Diam. of disk 2 3/16 in. (5.5 cm)
Gift of Norbert Schimmel, 1987 (1987.220)
This hairnet, with its combination of delicate filigree, carefully hammered decorative bust, and spool-shaped beads, is a superb example of the Hellenistic goldsmith's skill. The medallion represents the head of a maenad, a female follower of the god Dionysos, wearing spiral earrings, a wreath of vine leaves and grapes, and a panther skin.
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