Portrait head of boy initiate wearing myrtle wreath

Agora Museum, Athens, Greece

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Material: Marble
Date range: 1st half of 3rd century AD
Origin: Greece

This portrait represents a young initiate (mystes) to the Eleusinian Mysteries, the most famous and revered mystery cult of ancient Greece dedicated to Demeter and Persephone. The myrtle wreath worn by the boy identifies him as a participant in these secret rites, as myrtle was sacred to the goddesses and promises blessed afterlife to participants.

The lock of hair was kept uncut from childhood and dedicated to a god upon reaching adulthood. This symbolized a sacred vow and spiritual coming of age, being ritually cut and offered as part of initiation ceremonies.

As an initiate to the Eleusinian Mysteries, this youth participated in secret rituals promising spiritual transformation and a blessed afterlife. Such portrait sculptures served as commemorative objects honoring the initiate's participation and as votive offerings expressing devotion to Demeter and Persephone, who presided over the mysteries of death and rebirth.

Museum label reference: Portrait head of a boy initiate to the Eleusinian Mysteries, 1st half of 3rd cent. A.D. He wears a myrtle wreath. The single long lock which is falling from the crown to the back of the head was preserved for dedication to a divinity after coming of age. (S 1307)

Original Text: Εικονιστική κεφαλή αγοριού, μύστη των Ελευσινίων Μυστηρίων, α΄ μισό 3ου αι. μ.Χ. Φέρει στεφάνι μυρτιάς. Ο μακρύς πλόκαμος στην πίσω πλευρά του κεφαλιού προοριζόταν για αφιέρωμα σε κάποια θεότητα κατά την ενηλικίωση

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Marble portrait head of a young male initiate to the Eleusinian Mysteries crowned with sacred myrtle wreath

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