Head of a Victory (al-Ḥārrā)

 

Nike's identity is betrayed by the pathognomonic hairstyle parted above the mid-forehead and fixed at the nape in a thick bun. The rear of the skull, not meant to be seen, is flattened. The hair is indicated by incisions shaped like fish bones. The cranium is crowned by a diadem with a rounded upper border. The eyes are wide open and almond-shaped. 

The nose is chipped off. 

Provenance: al-Ḥārrā. Acquired by the museum on May 21, 1949. 
Era: mid second century CE. 
Substance: dark grey basalt.
Dimensions: H 38.2 cm, W 28 cm, D 21.2 cm.
Text: adapted from Weber (p. 41).
Collection: the National Museum of Damascus. 

Thomas M. Weber. Sculptures from Roman Syria in the Syrian National Museum of Damascus. Vol I, from Cities and Villages in Central and Southern Syria. Wernersche Verlagsgesellschaft. Worms. 2006.