Circa 2nd Century AD

Marble Head of Athena Wearing Corinthian Helmet

Description: Roman marble head of Athena wearing the Corinthian helmet with distinctive eye holes and nose bridge visible. She has a solemn countenance with a forward gaze, broad nose, rounded chin, well-formed pursed lips and taut cheeks. Attractive soft-hued marble. Lovely example in marble of this most popular Greek goddess in fine Roman Imperial style. Eastern Mediterranean.  Drilled underneath to fit onto wood and metal plinth base.

Height: 2.75 in. (7 cm)

Condition: Intact as shown with some wear and minor losses (tip of helmet crest) but retaining strong presence and features.

Provenance: Formerly in a private European collection. Also, once Christies London.

Reference:  See Comstock & Vermule, Scupture in Stone: The Greek, Roman and Etruscan Collection of the Museum of Fine Arts Boston, plate 150, for similar sculpted head of Athena.

Background: Far more than a goddess of battle, Athena was honored as a protector and defender who imparted wise courage on all bold warriors including Heracles and Odysseus.

Price: $ 5,800