Name

Small portrait head of a man

Original museum location and inventory no.

None; missing before the Butrint Archaeological Museum collection was established

Materials

White marble

Dimensions

Height 10.5 cm, face 6.6 cm high

Excavation context

Found by Ugolini near the first arch of the theatre

Bibliography

Gilkes, O. (2003) (ed.) The Theatre at Butrint: Luigi Maria Ugolini’s Excavations at Butrint 1928-1932 (Albania Antica IV, Supl. vol. 35): 208, 243; fig. 8.17. London.

Description (inc. icon. study, comparison with similar objects, production context)

The head, which is turned slightly towards his right represents a mature man. He has a high, furrowed forehead, thin lips, a pronounced chin and eyes set deep under the brows. The hair is short and articulated in small locks over his forehead. The head probably formed part of a decorative marble relief. The hairstyle combined with the rather firm expression and dry execution suggests a date of the very early Empire.

Dating

Early Imperial (Julio-Claudian).

History of Disappearance

The discovery of the head was recorded by Ugolini but it never became part of Butrint Archaeological Museum collection and no record of the head exists since its excavation in 1928-1932.

Last Known State of Conservation

Nose and chin damaged; surface corroded and worn.

Notes