canephore

Century Dictionary and Cyclopedia

1. n. One of the bearers of the baskets containing the implements of sacrifice in the processions of the Dionysia, Panathenæa, and other ancient Grecian festivals. The office was one of honor, much coveted by virgins.
2. n. In architecture, a female figure bearing a basket on her head. Sometimes improperly confounded with caryatid.