The Kore with the almond-shaped eyes

myminifactory

The Kore with Almond-Shaped Eyes Captivates as One of Acropolis's Most Beautiful Korai. Originating from approximately 500 BC, this masterpiece is carved from Marble of Paros and pushes the boundaries of form and sculpting style to new heights. A plaster copy, taken from The Pushkin Museum in Moscow, displays the Kore with her chiton cropped, giving a glimpse into the intricacies of ancient Greek attire. In the latter quarter of the century, fashion trends underwent significant changes, favoring the cross-slung himation worn over the crinkly chiton. This style, paired with extravagantly complex hairstyles, offered numerous possibilities for surface decoration. As the brilliance of the drapery is emphasized, anatomical forms beneath become more pronounced. For instance, korai from this period frequently use one hand to pull the drapery against their limbs, thereby revealing the shapes of the body beneath. With this Kore, also known as "La Delicata" or "The Kore with The Almond Eyes," a new atmosphere is palpable. Contrasting patterns of coiffure, grouped folds of the chiton, and weighty textured himation folds are set against the somber expression on her face. This exquisite piece showcases the young woman clad in a chiton and short himation, fastened at the left shoulder. A band with a painted maeander ornament adorns her diadem, adding an air of elegance to her attire.