Menu

Wananga landing Wananga landing

Terracotta antefix

20 November 2023

Cerveteri, early Hellenistic Period (330 BCE–30 CE)
On loan from Otago Museum
H 20cm, W 19cm
Otago Museum E48.64 (JLMC D6.55)

HOW TO APPLY

This antefix (architectural ornament) would have embellished a cover tile on the eaves of an ancient building. Made in moulds, such items took the form of heads of mythological or human figures, and covered and protected exposed parts of the building from the weather.

It is uncertain who is represented on this antefix, although her ornate hairstyle suggests she is a goddess. One possibility is that it is the goddess Artemis because of the outline of an object on her upper right, which may be a quiver. Remains of white slip and red paint are reminders that these antefixes, along with the temples they adorned, were painted in bright colours.


Terracotta antefix
Privacy Preferences

By clicking "Accept All Cookies", you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyse site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts.