Artwork

Stone sculpture of a head of a warrior, probably from Palace of Xerxes

Stone sculpture of a head of a warrior, probably from Palace of Xerxes, by Unknown, photographic, 1917
Stone sculpture of a head of a warrior, probably from Palace of Xerxes, by Unknown, photographic, 1917

Stone sculpture of a head of a warrior, probably from Palace of Xerxes is a photographic photography by Unknown. It dates from 1917 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. A 1917 black-and-white photograph depicts a weathered stone fragment of a warrior's head, captured in profile.

About this work

The damage suggests it’s very old, but the carving is still clear enough to see details like the beard and headdress.

This is a broken stone carving of a person’s head and shoulders. The face is simple, with straight hair and a beard. The stone is rough and cracked, showing wear over time. The figure wears a headdress with a feathered top, carved in low relief.

The photo was taken in 1917, likely of a fragment from an ancient palace. The damage suggests it’s very old, but the carving is still clear enough to see details like the beard and headdress.

Check out the Victoria and Albert Museum to see more ancient sculptures like this.

Overview

A 1917 black-and-white photograph depicts a weathered stone fragment of a warrior's head, captured in profile. The image showcases a worn, ancient carving.

Subject & Meaning

The stone carving represents a bearded male figure wearing a headdress adorned with feathers, likely a warrior. The simplicity of the face and the detail of the headdress suggest a specific cultural or historical context.

Technique & Style

The carving is executed in low relief, with visible texture and wear on the stone surface. The level of detail preserved, despite damage, indicates a high level of craftsmanship.

History & Provenance

The fragment is believed to originate from an ancient palace, possibly that of Xerxes. The condition and style of the carving support its antiquity.

Context

The photograph was taken in 1917, documenting the fragment's state at that time. The Victoria and Albert Museum holds related ancient sculptures.

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known