Cycladic Head attributed to the Schuster Sculptor

 
Late Spedos type, c.2500 BC
Height: 10.2 cm
Provenance: Private collection, Switzerland, acquired 1960s and thence by descent
 
An iconic object of abstract simplicity and timeless beauty, this elegant and well-preserved head is attributed to the Schuster sculptor, recognised as one of the three great master sculptors of the Early Greek Bronze Age Cycladic culture. It would have originally formed a part of a folded-arm figure, but nonetheless holds its own as a complete work of art. 
 
Active in 2400BC, The Schuster Sculptor is thought to be younger than his more prolific peers, the Goulandris and Naxos Museum Sculptors. Only twelve figures have been attributed to the Schuster Sculptor to date, and his name-piece is the only one completely preserved. It sold for over $16,500,000 at Christies NY in 2010.