Artifact - Antiquity - Terracotta Statuette Of Eros Holding A Swan - Ex-voto - Greece

Period: 2nd century BC Origin: Magna Graecia Provenance: Private collection of Mr. B. (Acquired before 1973), South of France Beautiful terracotta statuette representing a young Eros or a child, naked, delicately holding a bird, probably a swan. The image of the child holding a bird is a classic motif in Greek and Roman art, symbolizing both innocence, freedom, and sometimes mythological allusions to Eros or other child divinities. Description: • Material: Terracotta, with a natural patina due to time. The surface of the statuette shows traces of wear corresponding to its age. • Shape: The statuette shows a seated child, naked, holding a bird in his arms. Although the head has been broken and then glued back together, the repair has been done carefully, and the details of the face and body remain legible. • Decoration: The attention to detail, particularly on the bird’s wings and the folds of the child’s body, demonstrates the craftsmanship of the Hellenistic period. The statuette, despite visible chips and traces of gluing, retains its charm and historical appeal. Usage: Statuettes of children holding birds were often placed in homes or shrines, and sometimes used as funerary offerings. The connection between the child and the bird could also symbolize freedom, nature, or spiritual beliefs related to Greek mythology, where birds frequently represent the soul or divine love, particularly in depictions of Eros. • Condition: Although the head has been broken and reglued, the statuette is generally well preserved. The gluing is visible but does not affect the stability of the object. Light wear is visible on the surface, giving a beautiful old patina. Iconography: This type of figurine is common in Greek and Roman iconography, depicting the relationship between man and nature, as well as themes related to love, purity and childhood. Similar examples of terracotta figurines, depicting children with birds, can be found in major museum collections. Dimensions: • Height: 7.7 cm ALL DELIVERIES ARE MADE BY DHL EXPRESS ONLY!