Roman, Eastern Provinces, the Levant, the Hauran (southern Syria / northern Jordan), Imperial Period, ca. 2nd to 4th century BCE. An elegant basalt sculpture depicting the draped body of a standing female figure - perhaps a goddess. Tied in a neat bow at the waist, the tiered robes cascade in pleated folds down the figure's thighs. Her lower legs are exposed below, placed apart with knees slightly bent. This highly idealized portrayal of her clothing and graceful sway of her body are reminiscent of Hellenistic Greek sculpture. A sensitively carved example from the Eastern Provinces of the Roman Empire! Size: 7.7" W x 16" H (19.6 cm x 40.6 cm); 19.6" H (49.8 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.

Please note: items from Syria are not eligible for international shipping due to the US embargo on Syria.

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

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#174719

Fragment of a larger piece with losses to limbs and chips, nicks, and expected surface wear to basalt as shown. Ample remaining detail and rich earthen deposits throughout.