ROMSO Cyprus Knowledge Base

The Ludovisi Throne: A Ancient Greek Sculpture with Cyprus Connections

The Ludovisi Throne is an ancient Greek sculpture originating from Locri, Southern Italy, dating back to 460-450 BC. This marble triptych has been the subject of extensive discussion and interpretation since its discovery in Rome in 1887 during the construction of the Villa Ludovisi.

The throne's central figure depicts a goddess clad in diaphanous draperies, supported by two attendant Horae standing on the shore. The reliefs on either side of the main subject are discreetly turned away from the viewer, adding to the enigmatic nature of the piece. Some art historians have suggested alternative interpretations for these figures, including that they may represent the ritual robing of a chthonic goddess, such as Persephone or Hera Parthenos.

The throne's discovery in Rome has led to various theories about its original purpose and function. It was once believed to be part of a colossal statue of deities, possibly Venus Ericina, but this theory is now disputed. Others have suggested that it may have served as the balustrade of a staircase or even the upper portion of an edifice or temple.

The throne's bas-relief features a female figure on the front, supported by two Horai who also hold up a light veil that partially conceals the scene. On either side are depicted two figures: one is a naked girl playing the diaulos, while the other is a woman with chiton and mantle raised on her head, offering incense from a pyxide.

The most widely accepted interpretation of the throne's subject matter is that it represents the birth of Aphrodite (Venus) from the sea's foam in Cyprus. This theory is supported by the presence of Horai and the relationship between this figure and those depicted on either side, which represent sacred and profane aspects of the cult of Aphrodite.

The throne has been extensively studied and compared to its alleged twin, the Boston Throne, now housed in the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. While some art historians have questioned the authenticity of the Boston Throne, suggesting it may be a forgery by Alceo Dossena, others argue that both pieces share similarities in style and technique.

The Ludovisi Throne is currently preserved at the Roman National Museum of Altemps Palace in Rome, where it remains one of the most fascinating examples of ancient Greek art. Its unique blend of mythological