Female figure with a polos
Female figure with a polos
Modeled from a small terracotta plaque, this figurine belongs to a large group of statuettes known as “pappadès”, because of their polos (a high cylindrical hat) that makes them look like Orthodox priests.
6th century B.C.
H: 17.5 cm
In stock
Product Description
Modeled from a small terracotta plaque, this figurine belongs to a large group of statuettes known as “pappadès”, because of their polos (a high cylindrical hat) that makes them look like Orthodox priests.
The figure is standing upright, in a strictly frontal position. Two pointed stumps replace the arms, the feet are not represented: in the lower part, the body flares like a trumpet, providing the object with good balance. The head and the face, which surmount the too long, slender neck, are summarily rendered: their shape was achieved mainly by pinching the clay between two fingers, to mark the outline of the nose.
Delicate zigzag, horizontal or dotted lines indicate the other anatomical details (eyes, hair), as well as the garment and adornment (pendant necklace) of the woman.
All these elements, especially the polos, enable us to identify this statuette as a deity or a priestess; such objects were largely widespread in Boeotian art during the Archaic period (Boeotia is a region in central Greece, whose main city is Thebes). Mass-produced in this area, along with the contemporary figurines of horsemen, they often accompanied the deceased in the tomb and attest of the popular devotion in that region, which was certainly less famous than other Greek centers.
