Votive face, terracotta, painted features, probably Roman, 200CB-200AD, possibly with recent modification

Made from terracotta, this votive offering is in the shape of a face with painted features. Votive offerings were given to Greek and Roman healing gods such as Asklepios as a request or thanks for a cure. Votives are usually in the shape of the body part afflicted and give some indication as to what the person was experiencing. In this case, the face-shaped votive may indicate a skin condition. Most votives are made from terracotta but some are made from bronze, indicating a wealthy owner.