Hellenistic Period, Terracotta Terracotta Head of a Female Figure - 4 cm
14
days
14
hours
07
minutes
46
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Current bid
€ 20
Reserve price not met
Expert
Selected by Peter Reynaers
Has nearly 30 years’ experience and moderated multiple online art research groups.
Estimate € 300 - € 380
 | €20 | |
|---|---|---|
 | €1 |
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This terracotta head of a female figure dates to the Hellenistic period, around the 3rd–1st century BC, and is a fragment that has been professionally restored.
AI-assisted summary
Description from the seller
Fragment of a finely modelled terracotta head, probably representing a female figure from the Hellenistic period. The face displays the calm and idealized features characteristic of Hellenistic sculpture, with softly modelled cheeks, a narrow mouth, and a prominent nose. The almond-shaped eyes are subtly indicated, while the hair is gathered high above the head, forming an elaborate hairstyle or headdress.
Originally belonging to a fully modelled terracotta figure, this fragment was most likely part of a votive offering or a funerary object. Comparable terracotta figures were widely produced throughout the Hellenistic world and served both domestic devotional and religious purposes.
The surface exhibits a light earthy archaeological patina with clear signs of age and long-term burial. Several ancient breaks have been professionally restored, enhancing rather than diminishing the authentic archaeological character of the piece.
Condition:
Fragmentary. Broken into several pieces and professionally restored. Minor chips, losses, and surface wear consistent with age. Overall stable condition with an attractive archaeological surface and well-preserved patina.
Provenance:
Formerly in the Madeleine & Erich Dammann Collection, Germany. Acquired during the owners' extensive travels between 1950 and 1970. The collection has been documented in Germany since 1970 and remained in continuous family ownership thereafter. As was customary for private purchases made in local markets during the 1950s–1970s, purchase receipts or invoices were generally neither issued nor requested. The provenance is therefore documented through the family's continuous ownership, historical photographs, and supporting biographical records.
Fragment of a finely modelled terracotta head, probably representing a female figure from the Hellenistic period. The face displays the calm and idealized features characteristic of Hellenistic sculpture, with softly modelled cheeks, a narrow mouth, and a prominent nose. The almond-shaped eyes are subtly indicated, while the hair is gathered high above the head, forming an elaborate hairstyle or headdress.
Originally belonging to a fully modelled terracotta figure, this fragment was most likely part of a votive offering or a funerary object. Comparable terracotta figures were widely produced throughout the Hellenistic world and served both domestic devotional and religious purposes.
The surface exhibits a light earthy archaeological patina with clear signs of age and long-term burial. Several ancient breaks have been professionally restored, enhancing rather than diminishing the authentic archaeological character of the piece.
Condition:
Fragmentary. Broken into several pieces and professionally restored. Minor chips, losses, and surface wear consistent with age. Overall stable condition with an attractive archaeological surface and well-preserved patina.
Provenance:
Formerly in the Madeleine & Erich Dammann Collection, Germany. Acquired during the owners' extensive travels between 1950 and 1970. The collection has been documented in Germany since 1970 and remained in continuous family ownership thereafter. As was customary for private purchases made in local markets during the 1950s–1970s, purchase receipts or invoices were generally neither issued nor requested. The provenance is therefore documented through the family's continuous ownership, historical photographs, and supporting biographical records.
Details
Culture
Hellenistic Period,
Century/timeframe
c. 3rd–1st Century BC
Name of object
Terracotta Head of a Female Figure
Acquired from
Private collection
Year acquired
2025
Material
Terracotta
Country acquired from
Germany
Condition
Fair
Previous owner acquired from
Antique market
Height
4 cm
Previous owner - year acquired
1960
Previous owner - country acquired from
Unknown
Depth
4 cm
I verify that I have obtained this object legally and that I am allowed to sell it
Yes
Authenticity
Original/official
Sold by
Disclaimer
The seller was informed by Catawiki about documentation requirements and guarantees the following: - the object was legally obtained, - the seller has the right to sell and/or export the object, as relevant, - the seller will provide the necessary provenance information and arrange required documentation and permits/licenses, as applicable and as per local laws, - the seller will notify the buyer of any delays in obtaining permits/licenses. By bidding, you acknowledge that import documentation may be required depending on your country of residence and that obtaining permits/licenses may cause delays in the delivery of your object.
The seller was informed by Catawiki about documentation requirements and guarantees the following: - the object was legally obtained, - the seller has the right to sell and/or export the object, as relevant, - the seller will provide the necessary provenance information and arrange required documentation and permits/licenses, as applicable and as per local laws, - the seller will notify the buyer of any delays in obtaining permits/licenses. By bidding, you acknowledge that import documentation may be required depending on your country of residence and that obtaining permits/licenses may cause delays in the delivery of your object.
