Statue Of A Poet Michele Gherardi (cast maker)

The poet, depicted as an elderly man, sits with his legs crossed at the feet. He wears a heavy mantle and sandals. The head of the plaster cast is now lost; the lips were originally parted — the poet was singing and accompanying himself with a musical instrument. He was playing the lyre (modern addition) supported by his thigh with a pick (plectrum) held in his right hand. The elderly age of the poet is indicated by the sagging pectoral and abdomen. The lion’s paws at the feet of the throne mark his status. We do not know which poet is represented (perhaps Archilochos or Alkaios?). The Imperial period statue was found in the villa of a rich and noble Roman family.