Greek Terracotta Female Protome Fragment

Origin: Mediterranean, probably BoetiaCirca: 5th Century BCDimensions: 3.75" Height (9.5 cm) Medium: Terracotta Protomes were a type of adornment in the form of a head or upper torso which could either be human or animal. They would have generally been used to decorate ancient architecture, sculpture, or pottery. Our lovely example is a Greek terracotta fragment depicting a smiling woman, or more likely a goddess.  She wears a stephane atop her beautifully detailed wavy locks and dons disc earrings.  The countenance is serene, archaized with almond shaped eyes, a broad nose, and full lips in gentle smile.