Double Herm of Aristophanes and Menander

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Human beings have always been fascinated by stone structures that stand tall as testaments to ancient civilizations. One such structure is the herm, a rectangular-sectioned pillar adorned with a head at its summit. These stone sentinels were originally used as waymarkers to guide weary travelers through treacherous terrain, their topped portraits reserved for depictions of gods and goddesses. Over time, however, these pillars evolved to serve a new purpose - as portrait busts, showcasing the likenesses of esteemed individuals. The janiform bust, in particular, borrowed its name from Janus, the Roman god of doorways and transitions, who was often depicted with two faces. In ancient Greece, Aristophanes stood out as a master wordsmith, penning some of the most enduring comedies of his time. Eleven of his forty plays have survived to this day, offering a glimpse into the vibrant world of Old Comedy. Menander, another prominent dramatist, is often credited with being the best-known representative of Athenian comedies. (Photographed by Merete Sanderhoff of the Statens Museum for Kunst).