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Date
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350-330 BC
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Provenance
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Temple of Hera at Olympia
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Material
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Marble
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Attribution
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Praxiteles
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Authenticity
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Probably a Greek marble original (some think it is a
Roman copy).
Arguments against authenticity:
Back unfinished, partially
recut (typical of 4th century).
Tree trunk is a Roman trait.
Documented instances of
Romans removing famous statues and commissioning a replica to stand in its
place.
Arguments for authenticity:
Quality of workmanship.
Praxiteles incorporated supports
into designs.
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Subject Matter
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Humanising the Gods
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Anatomy
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Tousled hair.
Deep set eyes with dreamy expression.
Soft musculature – more realistic thank Polykleitos’
cuirass aesthetique.
Slender and elegant proportions.
Body and face match age.
Baby is shrunken miniature of adult, like Eirene and
Ploutos.
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Pattern and Proportion
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Hair, chest and abdominal muscles main sources of
pattern.
Pattern in drapery folds over the tree trunk.
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Pose and Realism
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Relaxed pose with the tilted hip, weight on right leg.
A sinuous, sensual S bend in the body. Praxiteles’
trademark.
Uses Polykleitos’ trailing leg technique.
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Drapery
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Baby is wrapped in blanket below the waist.
Soft drapery on the tree trunk contrasts with rigidity
of trunk.
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Emotion
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“Humanising the Gods” – everyday activity e.g.
babysitting.
Both figures appear happy and content. Engaged in an
intimate bond.
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