Original Roman terracotta fragment in the form of an expressively modelled head wearing a characteristic Phrygian cap, dating to the 2nd–3rd century AD. The head presents a frontal face with large, prominently modelled eyes and strongly defined eyelids. A straight, sculpturally rendered nose and small mouth form the distinctive facial features. Despite age-related surface wear, the original modelling remains clearly visible. Particularly characteristic is the high Phrygian cap, rising prominently above the head and giving the fragment its distinctive silhouette. Beneath the headdress, modelled sections of hair survive. Above the forehead, the hair is rendered in clearly structured strands and continues along the sides of the face. The Phrygian Cap in Roman Iconography The Phrygian cap originated in Asia Minor and the eastern Mediterranean cultural sphere. In Greek and particularly Roman art, it developed into a characteristic iconographic attribute used for figures and deities associated with the East. It appears, for example, in representations of Attis, Mithras and Paris, as well as other mythological and cult figures. As only the head of the present figure survives and the additional attributes of the original statuette are missing, the identity of the represented figure cannot be determined with certainty. A specific attribution to a particular deity or mythological figure is therefore deliberately avoided. The fragment is made of reddish-orange terracotta and was produced using a mould. The reverse is open and distinctly concave, clearly revealing the original hollow construction. The irregularly finished interior indicates that the head originally formed part of a larger hollow terracotta figure. The surface displays warm orange to reddish-brown tones. Darker areas of discoloration as well as soil and mineral deposits survive particularly within the recesses and along the sides. Classification Figurative terracottas were widespread throughout the Roman Empire and the Mediterranean world during the Imperial period. They were used in a variety of contexts and could serve decorative, religious, votive or cultic purposes. The present fragment is particularly interesting for its clearly recognizable Phrygian cap. The characteristic headdress, sculptural modelling of the face and hollow construction make it a representative example of Roman figurative terracotta production. Fragmentary condition. The body belonging to the original figure is no longer preserved. Age-related surface wear and weathering, with minor chips, losses, soil deposits and mineral encrustations. The facial features, sections of hair and particularly the characteristic Phrygian cap remain clearly recognizable. The reverse is open and reveals the original hollow construction of the terracotta object. No reconstruction or replacement of the missing body. Provenance Formerly in the Madeleine & Erich Dammann Collection, Germany. Acquired during the collectors' extensive travels between 1950 and 1970. The collection has been documented in Germany since 1970 and subsequently remained in continuous family ownership. 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 continuous family ownership, historical photographs of the collection in the family residence, and supporting biographical records.