Cypriot; Said to be from the temple at Golgoi
Limestone
H. 64 3/4 in. (164.49 cm)
The Cesnola Collection, Purchased by subscription, 1874-76 (74.51.2461)
This statue of a man dedicated in a temple at Golgoi reflects the influence of Greek sculptural style in Cypriot art of the fifth century B.C. The lifesize figure wears a typical eastern Greek costume consisting of a finely pleated linen chiton and a wool himation (cloak). He stands with the left foot advanced in a pose that renders a subtle sense of movement. The slight Archaic smile and the jewel-like precision with which the hair and the beard were carved bring to mind Greek Archaic art of the sixth century B.C.
This votive figure wears a wreath of oak leaves and stylized narcissus flowers, which must have evoked ideas of fertility and regeneration. In his left hand he holds a dove, perhaps intended as a gift for the deity of the temple at Golgoi.
