THE BERKELEY PLATO; From Neglected Relic to Ancient Treasure. an Archaeological Detective Story

Miller, Stephen G. & John Twilley

ISBN 10: 0520258339 / ISBN 13: 9780520258334

Published by University of California Press, 2009

About this Item

Signed by Stephen Miller to Mark Golden on titlepage. Else book is fine. Some minor rubbing to DJ.; 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, Millerā "now an experienced archaeologistā "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.; The Joan Palevsky Imprint in Classical Literature; 176 pages; Signed by Author.

Seller Inventory # 17569

Bibliographic Details

• Title: THE BERKELEY PLATO; From Neglected Relic to Ancient Treasure. an Archaeological Detective Story
• Publisher: University of California Press
• Publication Date: 2009
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0520258339
• ISBN 13: 9780520258334
• Binding: Hardcover
• Condition: Very Good+
• Dust Jacket Condition: Very Good
• Signed: Signed by Author(s)
• Seller catalogs:
  • Art & Architecture

About this title

Synopsis

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.

About the Author

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.