Limestone head of a woman

myminifactory

The imposing sculptured head towers above life-size. Thick strands of hair are carved into place by a narrow band or diadem securing them, while two curled locks dramatically fall onto the cheeks in front of projecting ears. The powerful expression grabs your attention, and exaggerated features combined with the flatness of the face evoke Roman theatre masks. This magnificent head is a unique blend of native British and Roman styles. It likely served as a finial from a funerary monument or enclosure situated alongside Watling Street outside the ancient Roman town of Towcester (Lactodurum). Description: The imposing sculptured head sits proudly atop a base, set frontal and neckless. The facial features are striking due to the intense feeling they convey and the linear style of raised ridges in which they are rendered. The eyes are positioned close together under a furrowed brow: almond-shaped and protruding, with lids defined by ridges and pupils marked by a drilled hole. A long nose is separated from the small, downturned mouth by a groove. A prominent chin completes this powerful face. Thick strands of hair are drawn to the sides from a central parting, secured by a narrow band or diadem featuring a central rosette. Stylish kiss-curls adorn each cheek in a striking display. The entire face has a mask-like quality due to its flatness: ears are depicted frontally, and a profile view reveals that the brow, nose, and chin all project in the same plane (CSIR I, 8).