Ancient kore statuette.

National Archeological Museum, Athens, Greece

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Material Marble
Date range 500 BC – 490 BC
Origin The Acropolis, Athens

This kore statuette represents a young woman offered to the gods on the holy Acropolis hill. Such statues were often gifts to the goddess Athena to show respect and seek her favor.

The symbols of her beauty, like her wreath and earrings, show she is prepared for a religious setting. The red paint still seen on her hair and eyes reminds us that these holy statues were once bright and full of life. People gave these gifts to create a lasting bond between themselves and the divine world.

4889. Statue of a kore. Parian marble.

Found in Merenda (ancient Myrrhinous), Attica. The fully preserved statue stood atop the grave of Phrasikleia, as is indicated by the inscription on the pedestal. The expression of the face and the rendering of garment that follows the curves of the body underneath are remarkable. The chiton retains in many places its painted decoration with rosettes, swastikas, stars and meanders. An extraordinary work, one of the most important of the ripe Archaic style. Made by the sculptor Aristion from Paros. 550–540 B.C.

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Marble kore statuette from the Acropolis wearing a chiton and ionic himation.

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Source:  Athens, Greece