Ancient Roman Head of the Greek playwright Menander, 30,5 cm high -Spanish Export License -

This is a portrait head of Menander after a Greek original of circa 300 B.C. His lips curving at the corners, with high cheekbones, the large almond eyes set beneath a frowning browline, the forehead creased, the hair falling in thick characteristic curls to the left of the forehead.

Menander was a renowned ancient Greek playwright who lived during the Hellenistic period, around the 4th and 3rd centuries BCE. Born in Athens, Menander became one of the most celebrated dramatists of his time and left a lasting impact on the world of theater.
In 49 BCE, Caesar stood at the Rubicon River, contemplating whether to cross with his army, a direct violation of Roman law. With great resolve, he exclaimed, "Alea iacta est," meaning "the die is cast." This phrase symbolized that a definitive and irreversible choice had been made, sparking a civil war and altering the course of Roman history.
But one of the most famous quote in the world was not originally from Julius Caesar, according to Plutarch, the actual phrase used by him at the crossing of the Rubicon was a quote in Greek from Menander's play Arrhephoros, with the different meaning "Let the die be cast!"
What made Menander exceptional was his ability to create realistic and relatable characters. He presented individuals from various social backgrounds, portraying their virtues, flaws, and humorous situations with a keen eye for detail. His characters were not exaggerated caricatures but rather genuine representations of human nature, which greatly resonated with audiences.
Menander's plays, including "The Girl from Samos," "The Shield," and "The Arbitration," were immensely popular during his time and beyond. They were performed at theater festivals and gained the admiration of both the elite and the common people.
Menander's importance lies not only in his theatrical achievements. His realistic and relatable characters, coupled with his skillful storytelling, have made him an enduring figure in the history of theater. His works remain a testament to the timeless power of comedy and its ability to illuminate the human condition.

*Damaged nose as well as in the eyebrow, cheek and chin area. Otherwise in good condition

Provenance: David Aaron Gallery / Ars Histórica Arqueología, Spain, 2014

Exhibited: Ifergan Collection, Málaga (2018-2020) / Feriarte, IFEMA (Madrid, 12th-20th November 2022)

Published: Bonhams Antiquities, October 15th, 2008.

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- Up to 6,000 euros: 5%.
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Due to Switzerland customs regulations about antiques over 100 years old, this lot cannot be sold to customers residing in Switzerland.
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