Large Fragmented Head of Figurine

Name/Title

Large Fragmented Head of Figurine

Entry/Object ID

RC.AC.06.19

Tags

Terracotta, Terracotta Votives

Description

This terracotta object is a substantial molded fragment preserving the head and upper neck section of a female figurine. The head is crowned with a rounded, thick veil or draped headpiece (himation or polos) that frames the oval contour of the face. The central facial structure is softly worn, showing generalized projections for the forehead, cheekbones, and chin, though fine facial features have been heavily smoothed by time and wear. Composed of a coarse, dark brownish-grey to tan earthenware clay matrix with visible mineral inclusions, the piece tapers downward into a thick, neck-like neck extension that terminates in a fractured, irregular break. The flattened profile on the back indicates it was created using a single press mold typical of votive terracotta production intended for frontal display or devotional dedication at a sanctuary site.

Use

Votive

Collection

Randolph College's Ancient Collections

Category

Terracotta Votives
Randolph College Ancient Collections

Acquisition

Source (if not Accessioned)

Dr. Herbert Lispcomb

Made/Created

Artist

Unknown

Lexicon

Nomenclature 4.0

Nomenclature Primary Object Term

Relic, Religious

Nomenclature Sub-Class

Religious Objects

Nomenclature Class

Ceremonial Objects

Nomenclature Category

Category 08: Communication Objects

Dimensions

Height

9.5 cm

Width

4.5 cm

Material

Terracotta

Provenance

Provenance Detail

Donated by Dr. Herbert Lipscomb

Acquisition Method

Found

Create Date

August 10, 2026