Terracotta Votive Statuette of a Anglerfish,

Rare and extraordinarily naturalistically worked out terracotta votive statue of an anglerfish. The figure made of sand-coloured clay with red slip depicts a fish in its typical waylay posture with a raised, crescent-shaped caudal fin.

The mouth is open and ready to snap, the thick row of teeth is visible. The head with large eyes and the characteristic folds above is skilfully accentuated. Both tapering fins are raised on the sides. On top the cone-like dorsal fin protrudes. The bottom is flat.

Anglerfish were a particularly popular motif in the decoration of the well-known South Italian fish plates.

Greek/Campania, mid 4th century B.C.

Stairways of Napoli, Napoli -- September 11th, 2024

Royal Palace of Caserta Caserta, Campania, Italy,

Filippo Palizzi (Italian, 1818-1899)