Ancient Greek Terracotta Goddess

This highly rare and exceptional Classical head of goddess hails from ancient Greece, dating to around the 4th century BCE. Believed to be the goddess Demeter, the museum-quality treasure has withstood the test of time. Crafted in the ancient city of Taranto during the zenith of its power, the sculptural head is powerful, pensive and perfectly preserved, exuding the glory of ancient Greece. The figure remains in overall very good condition and features the materials and styles for which the artists of Taranto (present-day southern Italy) were renowned. The poised goddess’s wavy hair, center part and himation—a common ancient Greek head covering— frames her serious yet tranquil expression. Tarentine artists were known for their mastery of terracotta, which they used to create large-scale figures of the highest quality. Originally finished smooth, the statue would have worn a diadem, almost certainly made of gold, attached around the depression that runs over the head like a hairband. A