Carved Figure of “Erato”

American, ca. 1850
Mahogany
Missing portions of her carved lyre. Retains the original varnish finish.
This carved full-length figure of Erato holding a lyre is finely executed, yet maintains a naïve quality. During the Greek Revival period, classical figures were a popular subject matter. Erato was one of the nine Muses; the goddesses of music, song, and dance. Her name means “the lovely” or “beloved” from the Greek erastos. In Classical times when the Muses were assigned specific spheres, she was named Muse of erotic poetry and was represented holding a lyre.

31″ h., 8″ w., 7″ d.

Price: $10,500