Pregnant Cycladic Female Figure in the Getty Villa, July 2008

Pregnant Female Figure
Attributed to the Schuster Master
Cycladic, about 2400 BC
Marble
16 in.
90.AA.114

This female figure with crossed arms is typical of the sculpture of the Cyclades in the mid-2000s B.C. Scholars have divided Cycladic sculpture into groups or types indicating stylistic and chronological developments. This nearly complete figure features stylistic traits of both the Spedos and Dokathismata types, such as the exaggerated curve of the top of the head, the deep groove between the legs, and the prominent aquiline nose. The slightly swollen belly of this figure may indicate pregnancy. As preserved today, most Cycladic figures appear almost minimalist, but their original effect--with painted facial features, hair, and occasionally jewelry--was quite different. On this figure, only traces of red paint remain on the forehead.

Text from: www.getty.edu/art/gettyguide/artObjectDetails?artobj=15192