All Greek sculptural production was originally polychrome. Few examples of statues and statuettes have come down to modern times in their original condition with their polychromy intact. This figurine is a perfect example of how statuettes of this type used to appear in Ancient Greece. The attribute of the lyre indicates that this figure may be divine. In Ancient Greek culture and mythology the lyre was usually associated with Hermes and Apollo. Eros and the Muses were also depicted at times with the lyre. This particular musical instrument was also played at symposia, as part of certain religious festivals, and may have been played during celebration. Either way, the lyre appears either to delineate this figure as divine, or celebrating the divine.
To find out more about polychromy in Classical Times please see our relevant blog post: Polychromy in Ancient Greece.
