But Phryne was also notable for the independence she exhibited and for a wit and curiosity that put her in the same circles as 4th Century BCE Athens’ philosophers – in other words, some of the most celebrated intellects of all time. Unfortunately, the many references to Phryne by artists in more recent times have neglected her cerebral qualities in favour solely of her beauty.

More than skin-deep

We’re told that Phryne’s real name was Mnesarete, which literally means ‘remembering virtue’. Perhaps that wasn’t the ideal name for a courtesan. The biographer Plutarch helpfully explains that she had a pale, rather sallow complexion, which is what led to her amphibian nickname. The Greeks were rarely flattering when it came to nicknames: Plato’s real name was Aristocles, but he was always called Plato, which means ‘broad’. For all the attempts by scholars to connect this to his broad forehead (and implied cleverness), he is only one small step away from being known as ‘Fatso’.