Head of a man

Owner institution Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek

Summary

The head is made of limestone. The nose and left part of the beard are missing. Traces of red paint can be seen with the naked eye. The head has been examined with Visible Induced Luminescence revealing traces of Egyptian blue.

In November, 1994 a cast was taken of the head.

Description of object

The long, narrow face is dominated by large, almond-shaped eyes below prominent brows. The nose is broad and the mouth is smiling slightly. The moustache is straight while the rest of the beard falls in spiral-form curls. His hair is short, straight on top and very curly along the edges. He wears a double wreath of laurel and ivy.

Choice of methods

Visual examination

Macroscopic

Technical imaging

VIL: The head has been examined by means of Visible Induced Luminescence revealing traces of Egyptian blue.

Bibliography

F. Poulsen 1951, Catalogue of Ancient Sculpture in the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, Copenhagen, cat. No. 16a.

A.M. Nielsen 1992, Catalogue. The Cypriote Collection. Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, Copenhagen, cat. No. 11.

Inv. no. IN 2569 LISTED AS 2559 IN CATALOGUE - NEIL
Object type Head
Date 5th cent. B.C.E.
Period / Culture Classical
Material Limestone
Acquisition information Bought in 1910 on the art market. Paris?
Dimensions H: 50 cm.; W. 30 cm.; D. 32 cm.

Selected photos

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Other Visible Induced Luminescence: The luminescend particles indicates use of Egyptian Blue.