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Head of a man wearing a wreath
Cypriote
Cypro-Classical I Period
475–450 B.C.
Medium/Technique
Limestone
Dimensions
30.5 cm (12 in.)
Credit Line
Museum purchase with funds donated by subscription
Accession Number72.326
CollectionsAncient Greece and Rome
ClassificationsSculpture
Catalogue Raisonné
Sculpture in Stone (MFA), no. 436; Sculpture in Stone and Bronze (MFA), p. 117 (additional published references).
DescriptionThis image depicts the head of a bearded man. The individual’s hair is rendered with extreme care: while the beard is arranged in large curls, the coiffure visible beneath his wreath falls in long pieces, individually carved into the limestone. The large wreath that encircles the crown of the man’s head is slightly damaged, but its leaves remain visible, especially above the ears. It appears to be made of two different types of foliage, perhaps laurel leaves on type and ivy leaves on bottom. The man’s almond shaped eyes and slight smile recall the Archaic Greek style.
ProvenanceBy date unknown: with General Luigi Palma di Cesnola (from Cyprus); May 16, 1872: purchased by MFA from General Luigi Palma di Cesnola for
$ 1,704.39 (this figure is the total price for MFA 72.1-72.473 and 72.4871-72.4900)
$ 1,704.39 (this figure is the total price for MFA 72.1-72.473 and 72.4871-72.4900)