Figurine: Demeter

1959.01.0001

Thumbnail of Figurine: Demeter (1959.01.0001)

Detailed Images

Basic Information

Artifact Identification Figurine: Demeter   (1959.01.0001)
Classification/
Nomenclature
  1. Communication Artifacts
  2. :
  3. Ceremonial Artifacts
  4. :
  5. Religious Objects
Artist/Maker None
Geographic Location
Period/Date High Classical, 3rd quarter of 5th century BCE
Culture Greek

Physical Analysis

Dimension 1 (Height) 35.5 cm
Dimension 2 (Length) 10.8 cm
Dimension 3 (Width) 9.3 cm
Weight 1066 g
Measuring Remarks None
Materials Ceramic--Terracotta
Manufacturing Processes Handbuilding, Firing, Painting
Munsell Color Information Moderate Yellowish Pink (5 Y R 7/3.5) -ns White ( 5 Y R 9/0.5) -ns

Research Remarks

Published Description

Demeter: A terra cotta figurine of the goddess Demeter discovered at Eleusis, near Athens. Eleusis was the home of the Eleusinian Mysteries, which were initiated by Demeter herself. Demeter was treated kindly by the Eleusians during her unhappy search for her abducted daugher Persephone. In gratitude she taught the Eleusians her secret rites. Traces of blue and red paint show the original decoration of the statue. MYSTERY RELIGIONS For centuries before Jesus’ time, Greek and Near Eastern mystery religions competed for the devotion of the masses. With exotic initiations, secret rituals and promises of eternal life, the cults of Mithras, Cybele, and the Eleusinian Demeter shared many characteristics with early Christianity. (1) Devotional statue of Cantes, the divine assistant of Mithras. 22.1.101. (2) Statue of Demeter from Eleusis. 59.1.1. (3) Cymbals used in the rites of Cybele. Replicas. 16.7.7a-b.

Description N/A
Comparanda N/A
Bibliography

Cahn, H. A. Kunstwerke der Antike, Auktion XVIII. (Munzen und Medallien A. G., Basel 1958) No. 58.

Artifact History

Archaeological Data

The notecard indicates that this artifact was found at the site of Eleusis, 12 km northwest of Athens. The modern day name is unknown (Elosso?)

Credit Line/Dedication N/A
Reproduction no
Reproduction Information N/A

Share What You Know!

The Spurlock Museum actively seeks opportunities to improve what we know and record about our collections. If you have knowledge about this object, please get in touch with our Registration staff by using the form below. Please note that we cannot give appraisals, provide any information related to the value of any party's collections, or authenticate artifacts.

Please enter your first name.
Please enter your last name.
Please enter a valid email address.
Please enter comments you would like to share about the artifact.

All fields are required.