• Alternate view of object
  • Alternate view of object
  • Alternate view of object
Apr 16, 2009
Apr 16, 2009
Apr 16, 2009

Sphinx

Sphinx

c. 500 BC

South Italy, Taranto, late 6th Century BC

Amber

Overall: 5.8 x 2.3 cm (2 5/16 x 7/8 in.)

Purchase from the J. H. Wade Fund 1985.49

Location

102D Pre-Roman

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Did you know?

A sphinx combines the body of a winged lion with the head of a woman.

Description

Amber, a form of fossilized tree resin, was much prized in the ancient Mediterranean world, perhaps due to its mysterious luminosity, fragrance, and magnetism. It was often carved into figures or heads of humans, animals, or mythical creatures. Small perforations on this sphinx suggest that it may once have been mounted, perhaps for use as a pendant. Although now opaque and crackled due to age, in antiquity the surface probably exhibited some degree of translucence, a valued attribute for amulets and ornaments.

See also
Collection: 
GR - Greek
Department: 
Greek and Roman Art
Type of artwork: 
Sculpture
Medium: 
Amber
Credit line: 
Purchase from the J. H. Wade Fund

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