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Statuette of a woman, possibly dancing
Italic, Etruscan
Late Archaic Period
about 500 B.C.
Medium/Technique
Bronze
Dimensions
Height: 13.3 cm (5 1/4 in.)
Credit Line
Museum purchase with funds donated by contribution
Accession Number01.7482
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsAncient Greece and Rome
ClassificationsSculpture
Catalogue Raisonné
Greek, Etruscan, & Roman Bronzes (MFA), no. 197; Sculpture in Stone and Bronze (MFA), p. 121 (additional published references).
DescriptionWoman advancing on the left foot, moving to the side, elbows bent, the left arm swung out, and the right swung back. She is possibly dancing. The position of the legs, arms and the floating of the sleeves emphasize the lively movement of the figure. She dresses a tight-fitting ankle-length embroidered tunic with elbow sleeves, a pointed cap and closed shoes (Etruscan calcei). Under the tunic the body shape is visible. The cloth decoration is rendered with incised lines, dots and circles. An elaborate necklace is also rendered in a similar way. The elongated hands are a recurrent stylistic features of Etruscan votive statuettes of the late archaic period. This stylistic element could have been functional to emphasize the grace of the hands that dances and offer gifts or prayers to the gods. She has prominent eyes and ears.
Figure was solid cast in one piece; toe of the right foot has been filed off. Surface is moderately corroded; brownish patina on head, with olive green on body.
Figure was solid cast in one piece; toe of the right foot has been filed off. Surface is moderately corroded; brownish patina on head, with olive green on body.
ProvenanceBy date unknown: with Edward Perry Warren (according to Warren's records: Bought in Rome.); purchased by MFA from Edward Perry Warren, December 1901