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in delicacy of modelling and carefulness of finish, especially with regard to the hands and feet, the statue is not only a masterpiece of grace, but a perfect illustration of Giovanni Bologna's personal talent, and knowledge of anatomy in relation to action. Viewed from the right side of the face, the head, poised on a somewhat slender throat, is seen to lean slightly forward, and the goddess glances downwards in a line with her left shoulder. The hair, waved and plaited, is adorned with a chain of pearls, and a jewel of pyramidal form rests above the forehead ; a short curl falls from behind and lightly touches the neck. The arms are bent at the elbows, and directed towards the right side, the fingers being extended as though she would grasp some treasure in her hands. (The figure preserved in the Palazzo Vecchio represents the goddess as holding a branch of coral in the right hand and a shell in the other). The right foot rests upon the head of a dolphin, causing the leg to bend forward at the knee ; the left leg, gently curved, appears to support the weight of the body. The whole rests upon a base representing a sea-bank, upon which some pieces of weed have been introduced. The flexibility of the figure is characterised by symmetry and equilibrium, suggesting in a remarkable manner a momentary hesitation, as though she would encounter an approaching wave. An element of uncertainty appears to exist in the mind of the goddess, as to the chances of her treasures, which she shields against her body, being washed away as she stands in the sea.