Terracotta head of a woman with a veil
Unknown Artist
ca. 400–310 BCE
Medium
Terracotta
Dimensions
H. 3 1/4 in. (8.3 cm)
Classification
Terracottas
Culture & Period
Cypriot · Cypro-Classical II
Department
Greek and Roman Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
The Cesnola Collection, Purchased by subscription, 1874–76
Accession Number
74.51.1482
Tags
Art Historical Context
This delicate terracotta head of a veiled woman, dating to the Cypro-Classical II period (. 400–310 BCE), offers a glimpse into ancient Cypriot artistry from the island of Cyprus. Standing just 3¼ inches tall, it exemplifies the small-scale figurines produced during this era, a time when Cyprus bridged Greek, Near Eastern, and Egyptian influences amid political fragmentation under Persian rule. The modest size and intricate veil suggest it was likely a votive offering for a sanctuary, honoring a deity, priestess, or everyday woman. Crafted from fired clay, a favored medium in Cypriot workshop...