A two-meter statue of the Greek goddess Athena. Source: Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism
Statue of Athena discovered successful past Laodicea astir 2 meters high. The find dates backmost to the Augustan epoch and is considered the work of a high-level master.
Türkiye. Archaeologists discovered successful the past metropolis Laodicea astir two-meter tall marble statue of the goddess Athens.
The find was made successful the theater country – the statue laic look down successful rubble against the outer wall of the backmost stage, known arsenic the “postskene”. The caput of the statue has not yet been found.
The sculpture is made of white marble and has a precocious level of detail.
Master’s work
The statue is mounted connected a circular basal and depicts the goddess successful a traditional sleeveless robe peplose.
A abbreviated cloak is fastened astir the cervix – Hylamisand is located connected the thorax aegisdecorated with the caput of Medusa and snakes – symbols intimately associated with the representation of Athena.
The researchers noted that the backmost of the statue was not detailed, indicating that it was placed betwixt columns alternatively than for a 360-degree view.
According to experts, the work was done by a high-level sculptor.
Augustan age
According to the stylistic features, the statue belongs to the aboriginal classical style of the reign of Octavian Augustus (27 BC – 14 AD).
Particular attraction is drawn to the processing of folds of cloth and integrative drapery, performed with precocious precision.
The typology of the cloak is besides considered unique, which further increases the technological value of the find.
Connection with the city’s culture
Laodicea was founded during the Hellenistic play successful the 3rd period BC. e. ruler Seleucid Antiochus IIwho named the metropolis aft his wife Laodice.
Later, successful 129 BC. e., the metropolis came under the regularisation of Rome and became 1 of the largest economical centers of the past world.
Laodicea was known arsenic an important halfway of weaving, and, arsenic inscriptions person found, festivals were held successful the metropolis successful grant of Athena.
Researchers enactment that successful this portion the goddess was revered chiefly arsenic the patroness of crafts and weaving.
Work connected the restoration of the stage analyzable has been ongoing since the opening of 2026.
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