Statue

The marble statue of Aphrodite, goddess of love, is an impressive example of Roman sculpture from the Imperial era. Although it is Roman, the Greek name of the goddess has been preserved because the artist was directly influenced by the Greek sculptural tradition. However, it is definitively Roman in its appearance based on stylistic similarities with other sculptures contemporary with it. For example, the ornate hair and headdress signify Roman imperial aesthetics. Parts of the sculpture have been damaged; Aphrodite's nose and arms are missing. This almost adds, rather than detracts from, her mysterious beauty. Aphrodite stands in a relaxed pose. She is not so much a goddess as she is a human exemplar of gentle, confident, composed strength. Her sexuality is matter-of-fact. If one word could be used to describe the statue of Aphrodite, it could indeed be the word feminist.

The statue is feminist in the sense...
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