La Pallas De Velletri - Louvre - Paris

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This replica is a faithful rendition of a lost bronze sculpture from the Hellenistic period, likely crafted by Crésilas around 430 BC. Identical plaster molds of this piece were unearthed at Baia during excavations of a Roman workshop. The Louvre's version of this reproduction is perhaps the most well-known. It depicts the goddess Pallas Athena clad in a helmet and draped in a himation, equivalent to the Roman pallium. Standing 3.05 meters tall, it was discovered in 1797 beneath a Velletri vineyard during excavations of a Roman estate. Notably, faint traces of red pigment are visible on the hair, surrounding the eyes, and defining the mouth of the statue, indicating that it was originally polychromed. This iconic sculpture is showcased in the Louvre's permanent collection within the Sully rooms. Since July 2010, it has taken center stage, replacing the Melpomène in a prominent display case. Its counterpart on the opposite end of the gallery is none other than the enigmatic Venus de Milo.