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

Berkeley, CA: University of California Press, 2009. Cloth, xvi, 92 pages, [56] pages of plates, illustrations (some colour), map; 24 cm. Tight, clean copy. Dust jacket, with light shelfwear, protected in a mylar cover. "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 and 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 serves as a starting point for new research in the back rooms of museums." - Publisher. CONTENTS: History of acquisition and the first century in California; Description of the artifact; Pertinence of the head; The inscription; The Seven Sages; The Tivoli Plato; The Berkeley Plato and the Renaissance; Portraits of Plato; The Berkeley Plato and the Akademy; Ribbons; Plato and ribbons; Why Plato and ribbons; Conclusion; Appendix A: The square-omicron and square-theta portrait herms from Tivoli; Appendix B: Technical and scientific analysis, by John Twilley.. 1st. Hardcover. Fine/Very Good. 8vo.