English reading practice - Discovery of the Venus de Milo (C1/C2 Advanced learners)

The Venus de Milo is one of the most celebrated sculptures of ancient Greece and an icon of art history. This marble statue, which depicts a female figure, is believed to have been created between 130 and 100 BCE(Before the common/current era), during the Hellenistic period.

The Venus de Milo was discovered on this day 8th April 1820 by a farmer on the Aegean island of Milos. He was digging in his field when he came across several marble pieces protruding from the earth. He immediately recognised their significance and notified the local authorities, who eventually unearthed the statue. The statue was found in several pieces, and its arms were completely missing.

The discovery of the Venus de Milo caused a sensation in the art world, and the statue was quickly recognised as a masterpiece of ancient Greek sculpture. The statue was purchased by the French ambassador to Greece and was eventually given to the Louvre Museum in Paris, where it remains on display today.

The Venus de Milo stands at 6 feet and 8 inches tall and is made of marble. The statue depicts a female figure who stands with her weight shifted onto one leg, creating a sense of movement and vitality. The woman's arms are missing, but it is believed that she was holding an apple in one hand, a common symbol of the goddess Aphrodite, whom the statue is thought to represent.

The Venus de Milo is notable for its intricate drapery, which is carved in such a way as to appear as if it is flowing in the wind. The statue's form is idealised, and it represents the epitome of feminine beauty in ancient Greece. The statue's harmonious proportions and graceful curves have made it an icon of classical art and have inspired artists and sculptors throughout the centuries.

Despite the statue's missing arms, it is widely regarded as one of the greatest sculptures of ancient Greece. It is a testament to the skill and creativity of the ancient Greeks, who were able to create works of art that continue to captivate and inspire us today. It is a reminder of the ingenuity and creativity of the human spirit.