Description

Small torso/bust of Artemis. Artemis, the Greek goddess of the hunt, is depicted wearing a finely detailed chiton with a nebris: a fawn skin. Over the left shoulder a fawn hoof is clearly visible. Remainder of yellow and pink slip visible. 

Artemis is often depicted with a bow and arrows, accompanied by a stag, dogs, or other wild animals. In most classical depictions, Artemis wears a short, belted chiton (a type of tunic), often above the knee. This was unusual for women in Greek art, who were usually shown in long robes. The short style symbolized her practicality as a huntress, allowing her to move freely in the forests and mountains. Sometimes Artemis is depicted like a huntress with a skin cloak, fitting her image as a goddess of the mountains and forests. This emphasizes her role as a wild goddess, living in the wilderness, hunting animals, and wearing their hides.

Positive Thermoluminescence-test.

Culture

Greek 

Dating

c. 300 - 100 B.C.

Size

12,3 cm (diagonally)

Provenance

Dutch collection.

J. Bagot Ancient Art, bought at 2022 Rouillac auction, lot 301.

Paul Gaudin Collection (1858-1921); archeologist, engineer and major donor (more than 2100 artifacts) to the Louvre Museum. Acquired between 1894 - 1905 and then by family descent. Other collections of Gaudin in the British Museum, museum of Istanbul and said Louvre.

- Smyrna (modern day Izmir) between 1895 and 1905.

Condition

Excellent condition