Etruscan Terracotta Head of a Woman in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, November 2010

Terracotta head of a woman

Period: Late Classical

Date: 4th century B.C.

Culture: Etruscan

Medium: Terracotta

Dimensions: 6 5/16 x 4 1/2 x 3 3/4 in. (16 x 11.43 x 9.53 cm)

Classification: Terracottas

Credit Line: Purchase by subscription, 1896

Accession Number: 96.18.174


Description:

The figure wears an elaborate diadem and ornate necklace, types of jewelry often depicted on votive heads from the sanctuaries of Cerveteri in Southern Etruria. Etruscan devotees often deposited offerings of terracotta heads, apparently stylized portraits, for favors anticipated or received from the gods. Such offerings were frequently buried in special trenches within a sacred precinct.

Text from: www.metmuseum.org/Collections/search-the-collections/1300...