Woman performing the oklasma

myminifactory

The terracotta vessel takes the form of a woman dancing, her hands grasping a drum that echoes with rhythmic beats. Typically adorned in attire often depicted on Eastern representations, she embodies the exotic essence of a bygone era. Xenophon's account reveals that this dance has its roots in ancient Persia, a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the region. Crafted in Athens, this artifact showcases the city's mastery of terracotta craftsmanship. Description: A winged woman dances with elegance, her Persian-inspired garments fluttering as she moves to the rhythm of the tambourine in her hand. This is likely an oklasma dance, a style that originated in Persia according to Xenophon. It was popularized by courtesans and hetairai from the late 5th century onwards, captivating audiences with its mesmerizing beauty.