A Greek Hellenistic terracotta statuette probably of the goddess, Demeter. She is shown seated on a high-backed throne and wears the polos headdress and himation, her hands on her thighs. The figure is covered with a thin layer of light grey encrustation, with small patches of terracotta visible beneath.
 
Archaic Greek: Circa 6th-5th century BC.
 
Fine condition, with a thin layer of accretions. Slight damage to the top of the polos headdress.
Height 17.2 cms (6.8 ins).
 
Provenance: Lloyd and Jeanne Raport Collection, Washington DC and Florida, acquired from the above, November 17, 1984. Acquired from Royal-Athena Galleries, New York.
 
For similar, see https://www.brooklynmuseum.org/opencollection/objects/37951
 
Such figures were no doubt produced and placed in home shrines for prayer so that Demeter granted the people a favourable harvest. Demeter is depicted in typical poise, wearing a veiled head dress and seated upon a throne with her hands resting in her lap. Probably once painted with pigments.