Marble figurine (Spedos type)

The so-called “Goulandris Master” is one of the most prolific creators of Cycladic figurines, and several examples of his production are exhibited in the Museum of Cycladic Art.

Characteristic features of his work are the lyre-shaped face with long conical nose, the sharply sloping shoulders, the small pubic triangle, the curvaceous buttocks, etc.

The rendering of the hands and their separation in relief is another characteristic feature of his works, which are often painted. Cycladic craftsmen used pigments (black or dark blue, red and, rarely green) to indicate the facial features, the hair, the pubic triangle, jewellery as well as vague symbols, that may represent body painting or tattooing. Over the centuries, most traces have been lost, but faint remnants are preserved, revealing this extremely interesting artistic practice.