Limestone statuette of a female votary (worshipper) playing a tambourine
Unknown Artist
2nd–3rd quarter of the 6th century BCE
Medium
Limestone
Dimensions
WebPub GR 2012 Cesnola: 17 3/4 × 4 3/4 × 2 3/4 in., 4 lb. (45.1 × 12.1 × 7 cm, 1.8 kg)
Classification
Stone Sculpture
Culture & Period
Cypriot · Archaic
Department
Greek and Roman Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
The Cesnola Collection, Purchased by subscription, 1874–76
Accession Number
74.51.2502
Tags
Art Historical Context
This enchanting limestone statuette captures a female votary, or worshipper, in mid-performance on a tambourine, hailing from ancient Cyprus during the Archaic (2nd–3rd quarter 6th century BCE Standing about 18 inches tall, the figure embodies the devotional spirit of Cypriot sanctuary offerings, where such sculptures were dedicated to deities as expressions of piety and gratitude. Crafted from local limestone—a durable, readily available medium—the piece reflects the era's sculptural traditions, blending indigenous styles with emerging Greek influences evident in its stylized proportions and ...