By the Cypro-Archaic period (750-475 BC), Cyprus had been divided into a series of city-kingdoms. Around 700 BC, Cyprus came under the rule of the Assyrian king Sargon II, and it remained under Assyrian rule until the collapse of the empire. Vase-paintings developed significantly during this time, and statues deposited in large numbers in tombs. Prior to the Assyrian rule, the culture, art and society of the area had been greatly influenced by the successive waves of Greek settlers between 1200 and 1050 BC, who introduced Mycenaean customs of burial, dress, pottery, production, and warfare. Votive figures have been discovered in Cyprus dating back to the 11th century BC, and have been founded largely in open air shrines near altars, or in bothroi (sacred pits for offerings). A figure such as this might have been a representation of a priestess, a worshipper, or of the donor.
Cypriot Terracotta Fragment of a Figurine
£ 27.50
A Cypriot terracotta fragment of a female figure, possibly a votary or a priestess. The figure’s face is oval with a prominent triangular nose and a protruding chin. She wears a headdress or a veil, and her arm bends inwards towards her breast. There are traces of black pigment to the surface of the figurine, indicating that she was once decorated. Only the head, neck and right side of the chest and arm have survived.
Provenance: From a collection acquired on the UK art market before 2000s. From a Cambridgeshire estate; thence by descent.
Condition: Fragment in good condition. Surface abrasions consistent with age.
SOLD
| Weight | 142.3 g |
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| Dimensions | L 13.4 x W 5.2 cm |
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| Pottery and Porcelain |
