Head of a Black African man

Art Historical Context

This small terracotta head, created in the 4th century BCE in Campania, South Italy, offers a rare glimpse into the diverse world of Late Classical Greek art. Standing just three centimeters tall, the piece likely formed part of a larger figurine or served as a votive object. Its careful modeling captures distinctive facial features, reflecting the technical skill of Campanian artisans who worked in this accessible medium. During this period, Greek colonies in southern Italy flourished as vibrant centers of trade and cultural exchange across the Mediterranean. The representation of a Black Af...