Mirror Cover with Eros and erotic scene (symplegma)

Cover separated from mirror (RES.08.32c.1). On the cover, within raised concentric rings, symplegma on a couch with two large pillows. Above, Eros flies to the right, holding a fillet in his outstretched hands. Engraved inside the cover on a silvered surface, symplegma on the edge of a similar couch. A pair of slippers is on the footstool in the foreground. On the underside of the mirror, raised concentric rings. The scene on the cover is a splendid mixture of quality and rubbery plasticity in design. The head of the youth is Polykleitan in proportions, while the female is more typical of the late fourth century in terracotta as well as metalwork.Crusty green patina, with the edges of the relief on the cover (cast separately) corroded.

Provenance

By 1896-1898: with Edward Perry Warren (according to Warren's records: From Baron Hirsch's estate [?] through a dealer. Bought probably between 1896 and 1898. Originally from Corinth.); 1908: gift of Edward Perry Warren to MFA; accessioned 1910

Credit Line

Gift of Edward Perry Warren

Mirror Cover with Eros and erotic scene (symplegma)

  • Greek, Late Classical or Early Hellenistic Period, about 340–320 B.C.
Place of Manufacture
Corinth, Corinthia, Greece
Dimensions
Overall: 17.5 x 2.5 cm (6 7/8 x 1 in.) 17.5cm (6 7/8in.)
Medium or Technique
Bronze and silvered bronze
Classification
Tools & equipment
Catalogue Raisonné
Greek, Etruscan, & Roman Bronzes (MFA), no. 369; Sculpture in Stone and Bronze (MFA), p. 123 (additional published references); Highlights: Classical Art (MFA), pp. 098-099.
Accession Number
RES.08.32c.2
Out on loan

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