Greek Division

Description

Crafted with meticulous care during the 5th century BC, this terracotta statuette of Demeter exemplifies the ancient Greeks’ mastery of art and their deep religious fervor. Measuring 100 mm in height, the figure portrays Demeter, the revered goddess of grain and fertility, who embodies the life-giving aspects of nature. As a major Olympian deity intimately linked with agricultural cycles and seasons, Demeter was a central figure in Greek society and religion.

The statuette depicts Demeter in a dignified pose, draped in a chiton that elegantly falls in soft, intricate folds, demonstrating the sculptor’s skill in portraying complex textiles through terracotta. This material, a common medium of the era, was pivotal for creating durable representations that preserved fine details over millennia, as seen in Demeter’s drapery and serene facial expressions.

Her head is adorned with a polos, a high cylindrical headdress that signifies her divine status and is often associated with deities of the underworld and agricultural rebirth. This headdress not only underscores her importance in Greek culture as the nurturer of earth and human civilization but also links her to other celestial and chthonic realms, highlighting her multifaceted roles within the pantheon.

The craftsmanship of the statuette is exquisite, with a keen attention to detail evident in the rendering of her facial features, which convey a serene yet melancholic demeanor, likely reflecting her mythological search for her daughter Persephone. The remnants of gesso on the statuette suggest that it was originally painted, providing a vibrant, life-like appearance that has since faded.

Historically and culturally, this statuette is a significant artifact. It not only highlights the artistic practices of the period but also serves as a conduit to understanding the religious and everyday life of ancient Greeks. Such figures were often offerings in small shrines or large sanctuaries, playing a part in personal and communal appeals to divine forces for bountiful harvests and personal well-being.

Today, this artifact offers potential investors not just a piece of ancient art but a rich emblem of Greek cultural heritage and religious practice. Its excellent state of preservation, well-documented provenance, and profound historical significance make it a valuable asset for both private collectors and public institutions, promising to enrich any collection with a piece of the ancient world’s spiritual and artistic legacy.

Cultural Relevance

In ancient Greek religion and mythology, Demeter stood as a pivotal deity, epitomizing the fertility of the earth and the cycles of life and death. Her significance is deeply rooted in the agrarian fabric of Greek society, which revered the earth for its natural abundance and life-sustaining resources. This statuette of Demeter, likely crafted as a votive offering, symbolizes the intimate connection between human communities and the divine forces governing nature.

The presence of Demeter in personal and communal worship settings suggests that this figure may have played a central role in rituals aimed at securing her blessings. These rituals, whether held within the private confines of a home or in the communal spaces of small shrines, would have sought to earn Demeter’s favor, invoking her powers to ensure bountiful harvests and enhance fertility. The statuette thus not only represents a religious artifact but also serves as a tangible expression of ancient hopes and spiritual practices, reflecting the deep-seated agricultural and life-giving associations attributed to Demeter by those who once worshipped her.

Provenance and Legality Documentation

Provenance History

This Demeter statuette traces its origins to esteemed collections, notably those of Paul Freeland and R.J. Upland Esq., known for their exceptional and significant holdings of ancient artifacts. The artifact was acquired by Victor M. Pracas through family accession and transactions with reputable antiquities dealers, ensuring a well-documented and traceable lineage. This clear chain of custody not only highlights the artifact’s historical journey but also reinforces its authenticity as a piece of ancient art.

Legal Documentation

The statuette’s legal documentation is comprehensive, including certificates of authenticity and a thorough record of legal ownership. Expert assessments by Giovanni Gervasoni and other renowned antiquities specialists have played a crucial role in affirming the piece’s authenticity. These documents substantiate Victor M. Pracas’s legitimate ownership, confirming his unencumbered rights to dispose of or export the artifact. The due diligence conducted provides assurance of the statuette’s eligibility for exhibition and sale, complying with all relevant legal and regulatory standards.

Investment Consideration

This artifact, with its rich cultural significance and exceptional state of preservation, represents a prime investment opportunity. The clarity of its legal provenance further enhances its appeal, ensuring that it is not only a piece of historical importance but also a secure asset. Its well-documented authenticity and pristine condition make it a highly desirable acquisition for both private collectors and public institutions seeking to enrich their collections with invaluable items from ancient civilizations. The Demeter statuette’s potential to appreciate in value over time, combined with its educational and cultural merits, offers a promising addition to any investment portfolio or museum collection.

Exhibition

The Demeter statuette is a prominent feature of our museum’s collection, where it is currently on display. Its presentation allows visitors an up-close view of this exquisite piece, providing insight into the artistry and religious significance of ancient Greek civilization.

Educational Value

As an educational tool, this statuette of Demeter is invaluable. It vividly illustrates ancient Greek religious practices, showcasing the craftsmanship involved in terracotta sculpture and highlighting the pivotal role of deities like Demeter in classical antiquity. This artifact serves as a bridge connecting contemporary viewers to the past, enhancing academic research and public education by offering a direct, tangible link to the beliefs and daily lives of ancient cultures. Through its display and interpretation, the statuette fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of the complexities of ancient Greek society and its enduring influence on modern cultures.

References

Research on the authenticity and historical significance of the Demeter statuette is anchored by Giovanni Gervasoni’s expert authenticity assessments, bolstered by comprehensive provenance and legal documentation from K.A. Hicks & Associates. Victor M. Pracas’s detailed catalog provides extensive historical, acquisition, and authentication details for the collection, including the Demeter statuette