Lot 771
A Greek archaic funerary stele of a warrior, 1st half - mid-6th century B.C.
Works of Art, Asiatica, Antiquities | A90kua | Live auction | 876 Lots
Description
Upper part of an exceptional, well preserved marble stele with the head of a spear bearer (doryphoros) facing the right. The motionless pose in profile is typical of the Greek Archaic period, as is the frontal representation of the almond-shaped eye. His long hair of broad, slightly wavy strands is held in place by a narrow hair band. Divided into horizontal sections at the nape. A part of the lance shaft has survived below the chin. The fragment of a marble stele is broken at the bottom, the back and sides sanded down. Slight knocks, especially in the area of the chin, due to the age. The tip of the nose chipped. No additions. Dimensions 36 x 45 x 11.5 cm.The fragment was part of a tall, narrow stele that was originally erected on the grave of the deceased, in which he was idealised as a warrior or athlete. Comparable to a similar, probably slightly younger stele in the National Museum of Athens (7901), the background here was also coloured red.
Provenance: From the collection of a South German classical philologist, acquired by him during the 1950s and 1960s. Remaining thereafter in the family estate.
Condition: II Questions about the lot?
