The Berkeley Plato: From Neglected Relic to Ancient Treasure, An Archaeological Detective Story

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University of California Press, Nov 4, 2009 - Social Science - 176 pages
This book explores the provenance of the so-called Berkeley Herm of Plato, a sculptural portrait that Stephen G. Miller first encountered over thirty years ago in a university storage basement. The head, languishing since its arrival in 1902, had become detached from the body, or herm, and had been labeled a fake. In 2002, while preparing another book, Miller—now an experienced archaeologist—needed an illustration of Plato, remembered this piece, and took another look. The marble, he recognized immediately, was from the Greek islands, the inscription appeared ancient, and the ribbons visible on the head were typical of those in Greek athletic scenes. The Berkeley Plato, rich in scientific, archaeological, and historical detail, tells the fascinating story of how Miller was able to authenticate this long-dismissed treasure. His conclusion, that it is an ancient Roman copy possibly dating from the time of Hadrian, is further supported by art conservation scientist John Twilley, whose essay appears as an appendix. Miller's discovery makes a significant contribution to the worlds of art history, philosophy, archaeology, and sports history and will serve as a starting point for new research in the back rooms of museums.
 

Contents

HISTORY OF ACQUISITION AND THE FIRST CENTURY IN CALIFORNIA
1
DESCRIPTION OF THE ARTIFACT
4
PERTINENCE OF THE HEAD
8
THE INSCRIPTION
12
THE SEVEN SAGES
16
THE TIVOLI PLATO
24
THE BERKELEY PLATO AND THE RENAISSANCE
29
PORTRAITS OF PLATO
34
WHY PLATO AND RIBBONS
52
CONCLUSION
54
APPENDIX A THE SQUAREOMICRON AND SQUARETHETAPORTRAIT HERMS FROM TIVOLI
56
APPENDIX B TECHNICAL AND SCIENTIFICANALYSIS OF THE BERKELEY PLATO
68
BIBLIOGRAPHY
76
GENERAL INDEX
82
INDEX OF ANCIENT SOURCES
86
INDEX OF COLLECTIONS CITED
90

RIBBONS
40
PLATO AND RIBBONS
44
PLATE SECTION
92
Copyright

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About the author (2009)

Stephen G. Miller is Professor Emeritus of Classical Archaeology at the University of California, Berkeley. He is the author of many books, including Arete: Greek Sports from the Ancient Sources, Third Edition (UC Press). John Twilley is an independent art conservation scientist.

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