Aphrodite of Melos Venus de Milo Greek Statue 17H

This famous sculpture of Aphrodite from approximately 100 BC is viewed as a symbol of eternal beauty. It is known as the Venus de Milo or the Aphrodite of Melos because of the Greek island it was found on in 1820. Aphrodite, later referred to as Venus by the Romans, was the goddess of love and beauty who was born from the silver foam (aphros) of the sea.

During the Hellenistic Period (323-31BC) Greek sculptors and their sensuous images of Aphrodite laid the basis for the representation of female nudes in western art. This was the first time that humans were depicted naturalistic and with pathos. The Venus de Milo's style reveals both Hellenistic and classicist characteristics.

Her upper body is much more classicist than her lower half. The sculpture was made from seven blocks of marble. The goddess has the characteristic contrapposto posture: her full weight on one leg which lends the body an alluring curve. It is hard for us to imagine what the sculpture may have looked like originally. It was expressive, poly chromed and adorned with jewelery and gemstones. Presumably Aphrodite held the apple she received from Paris of Troy in her left hand.

• Venus de Milo statue replica is part of the highly collectible Parastone Museum Collection. (PN GRE08)
• Material: Made from resin and crushed stone.
• Measures: 17 in H x 5.5 in W x 3.75 in D. Weighs 8 lbs.