Terracotta protome of a woman

mid-5th century BCE

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 156

Protomes are partial figures made up of either the head and neck alone or the head and part of the torso. The back is concave, and most have holes pierced at the top for a suspension string. Hung in houses as well as sanctuaries, they must have been thought to have protective powers. In this large elaborate example, the woman wears a cylindrical head covering known as a polos, which was usually reserved for goddesses. She cups her breasts and holds a pomegranate bud in her left hand.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

References

Title: Terracotta protome of a woman
Period: Classical
Date: mid-5th century BCE
Culture: Greek, Boeotian
Medium: Terracotta
Dimensions: Overall: 12 3/8 x 11 3/4 x 4 1/8in. (31.5 x 29.8 x 10.5cm)
Classification: Terracottas
Credit Line: Purchase, Avery Fund, 1923
Object Number: 23.258
Curatorial Department: Greek and Roman Art

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