Statuette of a Mime in the Getty Villa, July 2008

Statuette of a Mime
Greek, made in Myrina (in present-day Turkey), about 100 BC
Terracotta and pigment

Inventory # 96.AD.166

With a declamatory gesture and an expressive scowl, this figure demonstrates the art of mime. A late development in Greek theater, mime was usually comedic. Unlike other actors, mimes performed without masks. This figure's hairstyle and short costume are associated with Artemis (goddess of the hunt.)

Text from the Getty Villa museum label.