ITEM: Statuette of Baubo
MATERIAL: Pottery
CULTURE: Greek, Hellenistic period
PERIOD: 3rd - 1st Century B.C
DIMENSIONS: 80 mm x 58 mm (without stand)
CONDITION: Good condition. Includes stand
PROVENANCE: Ex German private collection, I.L., acquired between 1960 - 1990

Comes with Certificate of Authenticity and Export Licence. If you are from outside the European Union, we will have to apply for the export licence again for your country, this takes 4 to 6 weeks and has a cost of 5% of the amount of the sale, this amount will be added to the final invoice.

In Greek mythology, Baubo is a lesser-known figure associated with the Eleusinian Mysteries, a religious cult dedicated to Demeter, the goddess of agriculture and fertility. Baubo's tale is recounted in the myth of Demeter's search for her abducted daughter Persephone, which forms the basis of the Eleusinian Mysteries. Baubo is often depicted as an elderly woman who plays a significant role in comforting and amusing Demeter during her grief-stricken wanderings.

Baubo's most famous moment occurs when she attempts to cheer up Demeter by exposing her genitals in a gesture of humor and irreverence. This act is said to have elicited laughter from Demeter, momentarily alleviating her sorrow and inspiring her to continue her search for Persephone. Baubo's bold and unconventional behavior reflects the Dionysian elements often associated with the Eleusinian Mysteries, which included themes of fertility, ecstasy, and liberation from societal norms.

Baubo's character embodies the subversive and transformative power of laughter and humor, particularly in the face of adversity. Her actions are symbolic of the cyclical nature of life, death, and rebirth, echoing the agricultural cycles celebrated in the Eleusinian Mysteries.

Good condition

8 x 5.8 cm