New photography by Shannon Ruff captured with a digital camera-2008.

Roman-Egyptian head with modius

Artist Unknown

DateRoman Period, 1- 299 A.D.

MediumMarble

DimensionsOverall: 6 1/4 x 3 3/8 x 2 15/16 in. (16 x 8.5 x 7.5 cm)

ClassificationsGreco-Roman

Credit LineGift of Walter P. Chrysler, Jr.

Object number71.2028

On View

Not on view

DescriptionHead with stylized round braids or locks falling down on the neck, crowned with a modius (a cylindrical container used to measure grain) ornate with lotus blossoms and a Roman eagle on an orb in front (its wings spread, its head destroyed). The top of the modius is flat, and doesn't seem to be meant to receive any other ornament. The eyes are deeply carved to get glass inlays. A line sculpted in relief runs from each temple along the cheeks and passes under the chin, where it forms a little pointed bulge.