Abstract
Until recently, four copies of the sculptural type were known; with the discovery of a statue from Cyrene, there are currently five examples. The Cyrene replica, unlike the others, is securely labelled as a goddess-the Kore who looks after the grain-by an inscription on the base. Dated in the late second/early third century A.C., this replica is among the latest of the copies and diverges significantly from the other three complete ones in the treatment of its chiton. The reasons for this divergence, as well as the question of which goddess, if any, the type originally represented, are discussed. On the basis of stylistic comparisons, the Torlonia-Hierapytna type is dated to ca. 440 B.C. and is seen as part of an extensive network of related Classical types. The inscription on the base, analyzed in an epigraphical appendix, shows that the cult title used for Kore gives her an authority in the matter of grain which is normally ascribed to her mother, Demeter. In 1977, an over life-sized marble statue of a draped female was found in the Sanctuary of Demeter and Persephone in the Wadi bel Gadir, Cyrene (Libya) by the University Museum, University of Pennsylvania, Expedition (pl. 48, figs. 1-3; pl. 49, figs. 4-6; pl. 51, fig. 15).' The statue was discovered in the south boundary-wall of the E14 Mound, a large construction in the Middle Sanctuary made of shattered building elements, discarded sculptural dedications (mainly of the Antonine and Severan periods), rubble blocks, and earth fill.2 The E14 Mound appears to have been created in the third century A.C., after a major earthquake in A.D. 262 which heavily damaged the area. Before being placed in the mound, the statue must have stood within the terraced precinct of the Sanctuary with the many other votives dedicated to the two goddesses which have been unearthed by the Expedition since 1969.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.