Relief of a woman and youth reclining

Relief of a woman and youth reclining, late 6th–early 5th century b.c.

Etruscan

Amber; L. 5 1/2 in. (14 cm)

Gift of J. Pierpont Morgan, 1917 (17.190.2067

This sculpture is one of the most important amber objects of pre-Roman Italy. It is distinguished for the fine quality of its carving, considerable size, and complex subject. There is disagreement among scholars as to the subject portrayed and whether the work was created by an Etruscan artist or by a Greek artist for an Etruscan patron. The scene may be mythological, representing the goddess Aphrodite (known to the Etruscans as Turin) making love with the young Adonis; or, alternatively, it could represent a reclining Etruscan couple with attendants at a funerary banquet.

Met Museum

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