Title: Unveiling the Unseen: The Last Aphrodites Exhibition in Athens

The Unseen Museum is the well-known exhibition project of the Hellenic National Archaeological Museum that brings to the fore antiquities stored in its vaults away from the visitor’s eyes.

The Hellenic National Archaeological Museum's "The Unseen Museum" exhibition project brings to light antiquities stored away in its vaults, hidden from visitors' eyes [ANA reports]. The current exhibition, titled "The Last Aphrodites," is a small display featuring two intricate ivory carvings and two fragments of Coptic textiles from Egypt's late antiquity. All four artifacts depict Aphrodites, Nereids, or other mythological figures.

Multi-coloured Coptic textile (inv. no. ΑΙΓ 8381) depicting a naked female figure with her entourage: Aphrodite or Nereid, with a young Eros and Nymphs or Nereids, who hold canisters with the Tree of Life. (Photographic Archive of the Hellenic National Archaeological Museum).

The two carvings, dating to the 4th century AD, were likely intended to adorn bridal jewellery boxes, chests, or other precious vessels. The textiles on display hail from the period of flourishing Coptic weaving between the 5th and 7th centuries AD. These fragments were once part of luxurious tunics, draperies, or cushions used by early Christians in Egypt.

"The Last Aphrodites" is on display in the Hall of the Altar (Hall no. 34) from Friday, May 24th, to Monday, August 19th, 2024.

Website https://www.namuseum.gr/en/hidden_museum/the-last-aphrodites/

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