no. viii.
Ceres.

The original of this charming
figure is of Parian marble; the
correctness of its form, and deli-
cacy of its drapery, entitle it to be
called a model of taste. It is clad
in a tunic, over which is thrown a
mantle, or peplum: both are finish-
ed in so masterly a manner, that
through the mantle are perceived
the knots of the cord which ties the
tunic round her waist.

The artist who repaired this
statue, having placed in its hand
some ears of wheat, the name of
Ceres has probably from that cir-
cumstance been given to it; other-
wise, the virginal character of the
head, and simplicity of its head-
dress, would induce a belief that
the muse Clio was intended by it;
and that a book should have been
placed in the hand, instead of the
cars of wheat.

It was taken from the Museum of
the Vatican, having been placed
there by Clement XIV. It pre-
viously ornamented the Villa Mattei
on Mount Esquilin.