Aphrodite of Milos
Discovered in 1820 on the Greek island of Milos, this marble sculpture from approximately 130-100 BC is one of the most celebrated works of ancient Greek sculpture. The figure's contrapposto pose, the spiral composition of the body, and the mysterious absence of arms have made it an enduring symbol of classical beauty.
Became the definitive representation of feminine beauty in Western art. Its rediscovery during the Romantic era helped establish the aesthetic ideal that 'imperfection can enhance beauty.'