These mass-produced fertility figurines are the most common type of Old Babylonian votive statuettes, and served as votive offerings or as amulets for conception and childbirth. There is a rich corpus of terracotta figures with a strong association to the goddess Astoreth, whose name was altered to Ishtar within the Assyro-Babylonian religions. The goddess Ishtar, who was derived from the Sumerian goddess Inaana, was worshipped as a significant female deity representing fertility. She was the most important female deity in Mesopotamia throughout the second millennium BC. The nursing scene, where either a human female or a goddess was shown cradling an infant, was first depicted on administrative cylinder seals dating to the Early Dynastic Period (2900-2350 BC).
Old Babylonian Terracotta Astarte with Child
£ 795.00
An Old Babylonian terracotta figurine displaying the nude goddess Astarte, seated, nursing a child. The goddess is presented facing forward with her facial features delicately moulded along with the curls in her hair. She wears an elaborate necklace and band across her forehead. She holds an infant, on her lap, who is suckling on her left breast. The reverse is flat and unadorned.
Provenance: Ex London dealer collection, acquired 1980s-2000s.
Condition: Fine condition, some wear consistent with age.
In stock
| Weight | 130.8 g |
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| Dimensions | W 4.8 x H 12 cm |
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| Pottery and Porcelain | |
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