Classical Greek Marble Head of a Woman

Classical
Second quarter of 4th century BCE

8 1/4 x 5 1/2 x 4 15/16 in. (21 x 14 x 12.5 cm)

This object has the following keywords:

• marble - A metamorphic, hard, dense, crystalline stone primarily composed of calcium carbonate; it is limestone or dolomite that has been metamorphosed with heat and pressure. Pure calcite marble is white, but impurities produce a wide variety of coloring and patterns. It is finely grained and polishes to a smooth, high gloss. It is used primarily for statuary and buildings. Marble has been quarried from sites around the world since at least the 7th century BCE. The term can also refer more broadly to any crystallized carbonate rock, including true marble and certain types of limestone, that will take a polish and can be used for architectural and ornamental purposes.
• representation - A manner of expression by the artist in which the subject matter is presented so that the observer is reminded of actual visible forms. However, the subject represented may or may not exist in the visible world. For example, representations may include presentations of subject matter that are invisible to the eye, such as emotions or imaginary events, as if they are visible.
• statues - Sculpture in the round, usually but not always depicting humans, animals, mythical beings, or small figure groups. Statues are relatively large in scale, being life-size, larger than life-size, or only slightly smaller than life-size. For small-scale representations of humans, animals, or mythical beings, use "figurines," "statuettes," or another appropriate term. For depictions of humans, animals, or mythical beings in media other than sculpture, use "figures (representations)."