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Perfume jar (balsamarium) in the shape of female head (Aphrodite / Turan?)
Italic, Etruscan
Hellenistic Period
late 3rd–early 2nd century B.C.
Medium/Technique
Bronze
Dimensions
Overall: 10.5 x 7.6 x 6.4 cm (4 1/8 x 3 x 2 1/2 in.)
Credit Line
Henry Lillie Pierce Fund
Accession Number98.682
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsAncient Greece and Rome
ClassificationsVessels
Catalogue Raisonné
Greek, Etruscan, & Roman Bronzes (MFA), no. 505; Sculpture in Stone and Bronze (MFA), p. 125 (additional published references).
DescriptionA balsamarium or perfume vase in the shape of a woman's head, most likely the goddess of love Turan or the Lasae, Etruscan spirits of beauty who waited on divine and mortal women at their toilet. As it was found in a tomb in Etruria (between Ferentium and Bomarzo), most likely a prized possession of a wealthy Etruscan lady. The head is decorated with a diadem with two doves (associated with the worship of Aphrodite), elongated drop earrings, and a necklace of pendants. The eyes were inserted--probably glass irises were set into a fine lime paste. The base is decorated with a rosette.
The lid is missing and there is no evidence of any attached handles. Dark and light green patina with heavy earth encrustation.
The lid is missing and there is no evidence of any attached handles. Dark and light green patina with heavy earth encrustation.
ProvenanceBy date unknown: with Edward Perry Warren (according to Warren's records: found in a tomb on the road between Ferentinum and Bomarzo with MFA 98.683 and 98.684); 1898: purchased by MFA from Edward Perry Warren for $ 69,618.13 (this figure is the total price for MFA 98.641-98.940)