Description:

Ancient Near East, northern Syria, Syro-Hittite, ca. 3rd millennium BCE. A fine example of a hand-built pottery female fertility idol with tan-hued slip enveloping the exterior. The graceful figure stands upright with legs hidden beneath a lengthy gown and holds both arms to her breasts. The prominent nose is flanked by a pair of applied concentric circle eyes, and dozens of thin impressions suggest flowing hair on the coiffure and bangs as well as fur or other finery on her necklace and scarf. The design of the eyes relates to the ubiquitous motif throughout the ancient Near East that one's eyes must be wide and attentive to show religious devotion. Size: 1.6" W x 5" H (4.1 cm x 12.7 cm); 5.6" H (14.2 cm) on included custom stand.

For a stylistically similar example of a taller form, please see "Idols: The Beginning of Abstract Form." Ariadne Galleries, Inc., London, 1989, p. 82, fig. 63.

Provenance: ex-Phoenicia Holyland Antiquities, New York, New York, USA; exhibited February 23, 1999 by art gallery director Mr. Oscar Magnan at the Department of Fine Art, Saint Peter's College, New Jersey, USA; ex-private Mr. Khabbazi collection, acquired in 1992

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#155093

  • Condition: Restoration to upper two-thirds of body from knees to hands, with resurfacing and overpainting along new material and break lines. Minor nicks to chest, face, and base, with light encrustations within some recessed areas, and professional cleaning to some details on head. Nice remaining details on head.

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April 23, 2020 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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