The text panel accompanying the plate states:
PLATE XVI.
A SERIES of small Greek terra cotta Figures beautifully modelled and gilt.
These specimens are in a grand style of art, and although merely fragments are studies for any artist.
What can be finer than the reclining male figure in the centre, holding in his left hand a patera, and in his right a rhyton or drinking horn, his elbow resting on a cushion? The group on the left represents Venus seated at her toilet, placing a veil over her head; by her side she places the speculum or mirror, while a now headless Cupid is retiring, carrying away the calathus or wicker basket. The group on the right is a seated female figure holding a casket, probably feeding a bird which is before her, on a bowl which rests on a low fluted column. Among the rest is a female head, a panther, three griffins, one attacking a bull, &c.
These fragments formed part of a large composition in relief, for a hole may be perceived in each by which it was fastened to a plaque or flat background. They were discovered loose in a sarcophagus, and placed together in the case as seen in the photograph.
The above are about a third of the size of the originals, which are from the Collection of W. H. Forman, Esq.
This is part of the Volume: AL2029 Album of photographs of archaeological finds displayed at the National Exhibition of Works of Art at Leeds in 1868; within the Collection: WXC01 Photographically illustrated book written by William Chaffers of archaeological finds displayed at an exhibition in Leeds in 1868
Source: Historic England Archive
Photographer: Cundall & Fleming
Archaeology, Art And Design, Exhibition
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