Caryatid (1)

One of the original caryatids from the Erechtheion. A caryatid is a sculpted draped female figure that serves as a column that supports an entablature (beam for the roof). This caryatid is 6 ft. 6 in. [2 m.] tall.

The sheer draped garment both conceals and reveals the body of the figure. Note that the vertical folds of her draped garment, falling over her left leg, resemble the fluting on columns. Her right leg is "engaged" (flexed) — lending additional lightness and grace to the figure.

This caryatid is one of the originals, and dates to the late fifth century B.C. It supported the roof of a porch of the Erechtheion that was completed in 406 B.C.

For additional commentary and a view of another caryatid Click Here.