Greece, Athens, ca. 4th century BCE. A miniature terracotta vessel - the body presenting a magnificent rendering of a winged Eros sitting on bended knees and petting a dog - the surfaces still retaining white pigment. Above is a short neck rising to a trefoil spout, and a single handle joining shoulder to rim. The presence of the dog that Eros clearly adores was most likely intended to symbolize fidelity, a virtue that was valued greatly during the Classical era. Eros was the mischievous yet endearing god of love, a constant companion, and according to some classical writers, a son of the goddess Aphrodite. Perhaps Fido symbolizes Eros' fidelity to the goddess of love. Size: 3.125" H (7.9 cm) In time, ancient poets and artists multiplied Eros into a group of Erotes - winged gods of love or Roman Cupides. Hesiod describes a pair - Eros (Love) and Himeros (Desire) - both present at the birth of Aphrodite. However, later writers added a third Erote named Pothos (Passion). Some depicted twin Erotes - Eros (Love) and Anteros (Love Reciprocated) - who were usually shown gracing the scales of love. Eventually, poets multiplied them to envision an even greater number of winged putti. Indeed, the Erotes were the creations of poetic invention without any distinct mythology of their own - as opposed to Eros, the God of Love. Provenance: private East Coast, USA collection All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids. We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience. #135517