life-size carved statue of a bearded votary; In the archaic Cypriote style. The features show the mixed oriental style transformed by Hellenic influence; His head bears a wreath of leaves and berries permitting rows of small curls to frame his forehead. The beard is rendered in four stiff rows of curls. The skin tight tunic has no pleats, and the cloak which falls from the left shoulder is thrown over the left arm. Beard slightly defective. strong frontality and Greek 'archaic' smile

Votary Figure, c. 470 BCE

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The William Hood Dunwoody Fundexpand_more  28.23

The dedication of large numbers of votive statues in the temples of Cyprus began in the 7th century B.C. Such sculptures, symbols of one's devotion to the gods, represented the constant presence of the worshiper in the temple. This votary, one of many unearthed at the temple of Golgoi, was made during the archaic period, which lasted from the late 6th to early 5th century B.C. Common characteristics of archaic Greek sculpture, as shown in this figure, include the faint smile commonly referred to as an "Archaic smile," almond-shaped eyes, and stiff, static pose.

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Cypriot Votary Figure (#886)
Details
Title
Votary Figure
Role
Artist
Dimension
61 1/4 in. (155.58 cm)
Accession Number
28.23
Curator Approved

This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.

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life-size carved statue of a bearded votary; In the archaic Cypriote style. The features show the mixed oriental style transformed by Hellenic influence; His head bears a wreath of leaves and berries permitting rows of small curls to frame his forehead. The beard is rendered in four stiff rows of curls. The skin tight tunic has no pleats, and the cloak which falls from the left shoulder is thrown over the left arm. Beard slightly defective. strong frontality and Greek 'archaic' smile