Large terracotta statuette representing an ephebe holding a theatre mask, standing next to column a himation wound around his hips, revealing his body.
This type of statuettes are connected to the cult of Dionysos as he was the god of wine and theatre, thus implicitly also the god of mask and transformation.
A recent study has shown that figurine of actors, associated with types more directly linked with the female world and marriage, were commonly deposited in the graves of children and women at Athens and in places associated with the sanctuaries of divinities who protected children and fertility.
The rituals related to this cult was made in the belief that it would facilitate the passage from one status or age to another, and ensure the god's protection in such moments of transition.
Therefore the masks, and the figures holding masks should also be interpreted as guaranteeing a successful transition between life and death.

Greek art, 3rd century B.C.

Comes with a TL test.

Hight : 7.48 inches.

Condition : Very good condition. Mask reglued otherwise nice condition with traces of polychromy.

Antiquities
Ancient Greek