Statue from the Nereid Monument

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Marble statue probably representing a Nereid, which stood proudly in one of the intercolumniations of the majestic Nereid monument. The daughters of the mighty sea-deities Nereus and Doris are known as Nereids, with their numbers ranging from 50 to 100, making them beloved figures in Greek literature. They were revered for being personifications of the waves of the ocean, and benevolent toward humanity. Among the most renowned of the Nereids were Amphitrite, consort of Poseidon (a powerful sea and earthquake god); Thetis, wife of Peleus, king of the Myrmidons, and mother of the legendary hero Achilles; and Galatea. This breathtaking figure is draped in a stunning chiton (tunic), its folds rippling with life as the rush of the sea breeze caresses her. A magnificent mantle falls elegantly over her left shoulder. She was carried along by a majestic sea bird visible below the hem of her skirt, its wings outstretched in mid-air. Her portrayal here is perhaps meant to symbolize the means by which the soul of the deceased was transported to the afterlife. The statue is an exquisite representation of a draped female figure running swiftly to the right. She wears a long, flowing unbelted chiton with sleeves that appear to be continuous with a short diploidion reaching just below her breasts. This garment is confined by slender strings passing over her shoulders. In her right hand she likely grasped part of the skirt and also, possibly, part of a large mantle which passes behind her back and over her left shoulder, held firmly in her left hand. A majestic sea bird floating serenely above the water with its wings spread appears below the bottom of the folds of the drapery. This figure differs significantly in style and costume from the other Nereids. Her head, right forearm, and both feet are missing, leaving behind a hauntingly beautiful mystery.