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1878 Wood Engraving Cyprus Statue Priest Venus Artifact Sculpture Costume XGS3

1878 Wood Engraving Cyprus Statue Priest Venus Artifact Sculpture Costume XGS3

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This is an original 1878 black and white in-text wood engraving of a somewhat controversial statue uncovered in ancient Cyprus. Although at first glance it would be appear to represent a male figure (which many believe to be a priest of Venus), some argue that this is, in fact, the goddess Venus herself. According to a Cypriot legend, the deity was born at Amathus with a burly beard.

Cyprus is an island country in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea. The first known settlers of the island are known to be from 10,00 BCE which has been supported by ancient artifacts found in villages from the Neolithic era. In these same areas some of the oldest water wells in the world have been found.

CONDITION

This 133+ year old Item is rated Near Mint / Very Fine. Light aging throughout. No creases. No natural defects.No surface rub.No tears. No water damage. Please note: There is printing on the verso.

  • Product Type: Original In-Text Wood Engraving; Black / White
  • Grade: Near Mint / Very Fine
  • Dimensions: Approximately 2.5 x 7.25 inches; 6 x 18 cm
  • Authentication: Serial-Numbered Certificate of Authenticity w/ Full Provenance
  • Protection: Packaged in a custom archival sleeve with an acid-free black board (great for display, gift-giving, and preservation)

Period Paper is pleased to present this image depicting Cyprian archaeological finds. The artifacts shown were found during a ten year period by General Louis Palma di Cesnola, the U. S. Consul to the Mediterranean island during Abraham Lincoln's presidency. The relics were purchased by the Metropolitan Museum of Art and currently serve as the foundation of their antiquities collection. Interestingly, Cesnola became the Metropolitan's first director in 1879.

Keywords specific to this image: mythology, dove, archaic

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