Although bearded male figures carved from
limestone have a long history in Cypriot
sculpture, dating from the end of the seventh to
the fifth century B.C., their female counterparts
only began to commonly appear in the beginning
of the sixth century B.C. These female figures
can be typified by their rich ornamentation,
including necklaces, earrings, and headdress,
and by their rigid posture and flat bodies. This
stunning sculpture, carved out of native Cypriot
limestone, is a perfect example of this type.
Unlike the earliest female sculptures, these
figures do not represent the Great Goddess; but,
judging from their ornate adornment, it is
believed these women represented priestesses,
or perhaps even worshippers of the goddess.
While some of these priestesses are depicted
playing musical instruments, others hold an
offering to the gods, such as a piece of fruit or a
flower, as is the case with this example. This
priestess wears a beaded necklace. A broad
diadem crowns her head; her hair radiates
outwards from the headdress, framing her
forehead in schematic curls and falling in long
tresses over her shoulder. This gorgeous
sculpture is a masterpiece of Cypriot art,
revealing the distinct characteristics that make
the Cypriot style so unique in the cannon of
ancient art.
- (X.0100)
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