The Aphrodite of Knidos and Her Successors

Christine Mitchell Havelock's book takes a much-needed new look at some of the most famous icons of Western art: the nude statues that the Greeks produced to represent Aphrodite, especially The Aphrodite of Knidos, by master sculptor Praxiteles. Through careful analysis of the meaningof the pose of the Aphrodite of Knidos, the significance of her nudity; her architectural setting; and a survey of the statue's reception and interpretation in Greek, Roman, and modern times, Havelock offers an entirely new perspective on this major work of art.

Cover image: Aphrodite from Rhodes, Rhodes Museum. (Photo Hirmer Fotoarchiv 562.0720.)

Christine Mitchell Havelock is Professor Emerita of Art History and Curator of the Classical Art Collection at Vassar College. She has written and lectured widely on Greek art.

Praise / Awards

• ". . . Havelock focuses on the still-intended sacredness. She believes that this reverent attitude, fostered by Praxiteles' groundbreaking monumental nude holy image, brought--to later courtesans and wives alike--self-respect and financial independence. All students of the classical and womanhood in general will enjoy this book--if they can take a little titillation."
  —Choice