The Venus de Milo, also known as Aphrodite of Milos, is a renowned ancient Greek statue and one of the most famous works of art in the world. Dating back to around 100 BC, it is believed to depict Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and beauty, although some scholars suggest she might represent Amphitrite, the sea goddess worshipped on Milos. This exquisite sculpture is celebrated for its grace and the mastery of its craftsmanship. The Venus de Milo was discovered in 1820 on the Aegean island of Milos by a peasant named Yorgos Kentrotas. He found the statue in two major pieces (the upper torso and the lower draped legs) along with several herms and fragments of the upper left arm and a hand holding an apple. The statue was presented to King Louis XVIII of France, who then donated it to the Louvre Museum in Paris, where it remains a major attraction to this day. Notable for its missing arms, the Venus de Milo stands as a testament to the Hellenistic art period’s focus on beauty and naturalism, captivating viewers with its elegant form and timeless beauty.
