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Candelabrum with Aphrodite

5th–6th century C.E.

The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art

The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
Kansas City, Missouri, United States

Our partially clad Aphrodite holds in one hand a mirror as she applies some make-up. On each of the three supporting feet below, swimming sea-creatures—precursors of mermen—hold young women.

How to explain all this imagery? According to some scholars, the sea creatures are amorously embracing the women as Aphrodite prepares herself for a comparable night of love—just as the owner of this lampstand would do as she applied her own make-up by the light of this sumptuous work.

Details

  • Title: Candelabrum with Aphrodite
  • Creator Nationality: American
  • Date Created: 5th–6th century C.E.
  • Physical Dimensions: w304.8 x h508 x d254 in
  • Type: Sculpture
  • Rights: Purchase: William Rockhill Nelson Trust, Purchase: William Rockhill Nelson Trust
  • Medium: Bronze
  • Culture: Egyptian

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