Erato, Muse Of Lyric Poetry. Terracotta Circa 1800-1820.

In Greek mythology, Erato is one of the nine Muses, daughter of Mnemosyne and Zeus. Patroness of lyrical and erotic poetry, she is represented carrying a lyre or ancient zither, a musical instrument often associated with Apollo. A musical score at his feet. The statuette presented is dressed in the First Empire fashion. Serious and diligent, she is depicted singing. This is a unique, modeled piece (maybe a model for a pendulum subject). The reverse shows folds of earth, irregularities in the dough, characteristics of the 18th century or very early 19th century. We see small cracks due to cooking, normal on pieces from this period. There are no cracks, but the nose is worn, old restorations on the hand and one foot. A volute of the lyre is missing.