Bronze statuette of Aphrodite with silver eyes

Art Historical Context

This exquisite bronze statuette of Aph, the Greek goddess of love and beauty dates to the Hellenistic period (3rd–1st BCE). Standing just 8¼ inches tall, it captures the goddess in a graceful, contrapposto pose typical of Hellenistic art, which emphasized naturalism, emotion, and dynamic movement over the idealized restraint of earlier Classical styles. Crafted by an unknown artist, such small-scale bronzes were likely votive offerings for household shrines or sanctuaries, reflecting the era's blend of piety and personal devotion. The medium of bronze is particularly significant: hollow-cast ...