Applique, of Alexander the Great as Hercules
Production date
Circa 323 BCE
Country
Turkey
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Object detail
Description
Applique, depicting Alexander the Great as Hercules. Circular to ovoid disk, cream brown in colour, with darker infill to depict features. Reverse plain.
Classification
ARCHAEOLOGY
Production date
Circa 323 BCE
Measurements
L29mm x W24mm x D5mm
Media/Materials description
Terracotta
History and use
Applique, of Alexander the Great as Hercules. This applique would have been made in an applique mould, which would have been decorated on its interior surface with impressed facial features and locks of hair. Such moulds would have been used in ancient times to create fine appliques of male and female heads, such as this one, which is of Alexander the Great as Hercules (the Roman name for the Greek hero Herakles). Here, Alexander faces left, and wears an animal skin headdress. Alexander is thought to have developed a slight fleshy lump above the nose and lower forehead in the latter stages of his life – also depicted on the piece. This disk was likely made to be affixed a vase.
Registration number
E40179
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