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Source Image: PR320_01_08 of Marks and Garland Frieze (Izmir) of Aphrodisias: South Agora

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Description

Detail of a block of the masks and garlands frieze from the South Agora at Aphrodisias, now in Izmir.

Monument
Aphrodisias: South Agora 
Monument Part
Marks and Garland Frieze (Izmir) 
Monument Type
Architecture 
Material(s)
Aphrodisian marble (Visual identification)  
Date
bc None 
Keywords
MaskGarlandEntablature  
Collections
Aphrodisias, Site and Museum  

Location

Original Location
Izmir Archaeological Museum 

Evidence for working practices

1. Toolmarks

Process
Rough shaping
Tool
Roundel
Method
Angle: Steep (60-70°)
Force: Gentle
Description
A slightly round-headed chisel was used to model the face. This tool was held closer to the vertical than normal resulting in a slightly mottled effect.

2. Toolmarks

Process
Detailing
Tool
Drill
Method
Vertical (90°)
Description
Drilling is visible in the eyes, the mouth, and in the channel around the nose.

3. Toolmarks

Process
Detailing
Tool
Channelling Tool
Method
Angle: Shallow (40-50°)
Force: Gentle
Description
A channelling tool was used following drilling in the mouth. The deep channels along the top of both eyes were also carved with the channelling tool, though in this case probably not following drilling.

Notes

On many of the blocks of this mask and garland frieze, which are now split between Aphrodisias and the Archaeological Museum in Izmir, a difference in finish between the masks and garlands can be noted which might suggest a division of labour between specialist garland and figure carvers. There is also a marked difference in technique and quality between blocks, suggesting that a range of carvers were involved in this major municipal project.

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