Venus of Milo

In spite of lacking attributes, the size and the attitude of this marble statue allow its identification as a goddess Aphrodite, often represented half nude, or Amphitrite, goddess of the sea, venerated on the island of Melos.

The style is characteristic of the late Hellenistic period, which revives classical themes while innovating. Thus the slipping drapery on the hips entails a closed stance and introduces an instancy to the figure. It hides the joint between the two blocks of marble that were sculpted separately, as were the left arm and leg, according to an utterly new technique.

Dated to the 2th century B.C., Musee de Louvre, Paris, France.

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