Roman, Eastern Provinces, the Levant, the Hauran (southern Syria / northern Jordan), Imperial Period, ca. 2nd to 4th century BCE. A striking basalt carving of the goddess Victory (Nike), standing draped in dramatic clothing. Wings, their surfaces bubbled to create an impression of thick feathers, are just visible protruding from her back. Her stola is clearly sculpted, with thick folds carved in wide bands that flow down the body and a draped waist. Her stomach is highlighted with a teardrop-shaped form. Her remaining wrist is adorned with a bracelet. Below her waist, the folds of her garment draw inward, highlighting the shape of her hips and thighs. The basalt has weathered beautifully, and this is a rare non-marble example of Roman sculpture. Size: 10.75" L x 14.5" W x 25" H (27.3 cm x 36.8 cm x 63.5 cm); 26.75" H (67.9 cm) on included custom stand.

Similar basalt carving from the Roman period is known from throughout the Hauran. The region - which is largely a desert steppe punctuated by oases - includes the Lajat volcanic field. As a result, basalt is widely available and a unique and distinctive vernacular architecture grew in the region using the dark, porous stone. It is a fusion of Hellenistic, Nabatean, and Roman styles. Cities like Bosra, Qanawat, Shahba, and others contain Roman temples, theatres, and villas decorated with dark basalt carving like this statue.

Cf. another example of Hauran basalt carving from the Roman period at the British Museum, museum number 118890.

Provenance: East Coast collection, New York Gallery, New York City, New York, USA, acquired before 2010

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#146300

The torso is a fragment as shown, with extensive weathering and losses, including pitting on the surface commensurate with age to basalt and a large divot in the exposed shoulder.