Ludovisi Acrolith

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The Greek term 'acrolith' refers to a votive image with a metal-plated wood body and marble projecting parts such as head, hands, and feet. Small holes along the upper edge of the forehead, in earlobes, hairstyle, and neck sides allowed for the insertion of jewelry and precious fabrics to enhance the statue's appearance. The goddess likely sat on a throne similar to small votive terracottas discovered in Greek and Magna Graecian sanctuaries. Stylistic comparisons suggest that the sculpture dates back to the 480-470 B.C. period. The head has been identified as Aphrodite or Persephone, possibly originating from Locri Epizefiri, just like the Ludovisi Throne also available on Scan the World. Both pieces were brought to Rome after conquering southern Italy to decorate the Venus Erycina temple on Quirinal Hill, in the same area where the Horti Sallustiani and later Villa Ludovisi were located.