Lot 23
Greece, Hellenistic Period, ca. late 4th century to 3rd century BCE. A fascinating mold-made terracotta vessel in the form of a seated actor. Traces of white pigment remain over the fired red pottery, and it is easy to imagine this piece as vibrantly colored. The actor sits on a block with ankles crossed and hands together on his lap. He wears a simple chiton and a mask with the classic exaggerated features of his profession. A loop handle projects from one side of the vessel between the block seat and the figure's waist. The top of the actor's head is a round opening without a pronounced rim. Size: 2.25" L x 2.65" W x 4.9" H (5.7 cm x 6.7 cm x 12.4 cm)
Theatre was a major form of art during the Hellenistic period. Cultural influence from the east and sociopolitical changes changed the tone away from the political issues of earlier Greek theatre into a genre called New Comedy, with plays focused on light comic episodes from the lives of ordinary citizens. Hellenistic playwrights like Menander (ca. 342 to 291 BCE) would in turn influence Roman and later works on the stage.
Provenance: private New Jersey USA collection, acquired over twenty years ago
All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.
A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.
We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.
#121240
- Condition: Intact, with areas of encrustation and some remaining pigment.
Accepted Forms of Payment:
Discover, MasterCard, Visa
Shipping
Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense
Artemis Fine Arts
You agree to pay a buyer's premium of 24.5% and any applicable taxes and shipping.
View full terms and conditions
| From: | To: | Increments: |
|---|---|---|
| $0 | $299 | $25 |
| $300 | $999 | $50 |
| $1,000 | $1,999 | $100 |
| $2,000 | $4,999 | $250 |
| $5,000 | $9,999 | $500 |
| $10,000 | $19,999 | $1,000 |
| $20,000 | $49,999 | $2,000 |
| $50,000 | $99,999 | $5,000 |
| $100,000 | $199,999 | $10,000 |
| $200,000 + | $25,000 |