Beardless man (as-Suwaydāʾ)

 

This virile head on top of a powerful neck is quite impressive. Viewed from the side, the broad forehead recedes to merge with the flat coiffure on top of the skull. The hair is combed symmetrically in straight lines and ends with a rounded cut above the nape. The orbits are flat, and the contrast with the inlay of the large eyeballs must have been awe-inspiring to the beholders. The mouth is indicated by a horizontal groove. The chin is prominent. 

The nose is chipped off. The inlaid eyeballs have vanished. The uncovered ears are worn. The surface is coated by a thin layer of dark brown to reddish patina. The dark patch on the left cheek derives from the adhesive of a modern glossy label.  

Provenance: as-Suwaydā'. Acquired by the Museum on June 13, 1947. 

Substance: dark grey basalt.  

Dimensions: H 30.7 cm, W 19.4 cm, D 22 cm. 

Era: late first century CE. 

Text: adapted from Weber (p. 108-109). 

Collection: 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.