Grave Stele of Hegeso

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The Grave Stele of Hegeso, likely crafted by the skilled artist Callimachus, is renowned for its exceptional Attic grave stele craftsmanship. Dated from approximately 410 to 400 BCE, this magnificent piece of art is carved entirely from Pentelic marble. Standing at a height of 1.56 meters and a width of .97 meters, it takes the form of a dignified chair, with Hegeso seated upon it. Her feet are delicately placed on an ornate footstool in front of her. This elaborate furniture arrangement not only signifies Hegeso's wealth but also points to a domestic setting, as noted by Burton. The presence of chairs does not necessarily indicate a domestic scene, but the combination of the chair and footstool certainly implies one. The container that Hegeso holds is typically associated with women and weddings, serving as a gift for the bride. Probably the most striking object in the relief is the missing item of jewelry that Hegeso appears to be pulling from the pyxis, captivating both her and her maidservant's attention. The artist likely intended to express a purely domestic scene of Hegeso, a typical Athenian lady, dressing to receive guests or go out (not to leave the household permanently in death). The adornment theme stands in contrast to those depicting scenes of women's industry. This could be related to the dowry that a woman's father would need to provide her with in order to marry. In this way, the stele demonstrates Hegeso's ability to contribute economically to her future oikos due to her attachment to her own family and its estate. Marriage is an important way for men to form links within and outside of the polis. Therefore, an adornment scene would not only reflect a household's wealth and status but also commemorate its ability to continue helping maintain the polis at large in spite of individual death(s). The quiet contemplation evident in the figures of Hegeso and her maidservant is common in all grave reliefs from the fifth century BCE. This "mere shadow of emotion" reflects an absence of individuality, reminiscent of the Parthenon frieze's expression. The characters are noble and beautiful but absorbed without affection for the object at which they direct their gaze (presumably a piece of jewelry). In the Hegeso relief, however, there is a shift towards more realistic drapery around 400 BCE, as noted by Buitron-Oliver. These new trends led to classical sculpture, characterized by a "severe style." During this early classical period, sculptors and painters endowed their works with a feeling of seriousness in order to portray a sense of sophrosyne. The Grave Stele of Hegeso is not only a masterpiece of Attic grave stele craftsmanship but also a testament to the artistic advancements and cultural significance of ancient Greece. Its intricately carved details, beautiful form, and symbolic meaning continue to captivate art historians and enthusiasts alike.