Figure of Peplophoros. Greece, 4th century BC.

Figure of Peplophoros. Greece, 4th century BC.
Terracotta.
Measurements: 21 cm high.

The figure corresponds to the type of the peplophoros, a female representation dressed in peplos, one of the most characteristic garments of the Greek world. Its frontal attitude, the elongated body and the vertical disposition of the folds transmit a serene and contained presence, typical of the small terracotta sculptures destined to votive, funerary or devotional contexts.

The interest of the piece lies in the archaizing elegance of its silhouette and in the way the dress structures the whole composition. The mantle falls in marked folds, creating a linear rhythm that stylizes the figure, while the face, with schematic features, retains a calm and distant expression. The lateral discs as earrings or ornaments of the headdress reinforce its feminine and ceremonial character.

During the 4th century B.C., Greek terracottas reached a remarkable diffusion, especially in areas linked to the cult and the funerary world. These images condensed ideals of beauty, decorum and ritual presence, and offered an intimate and accessible version of the great sculptural models.