There is a rich corpus of terracotta figures with a strong association with the goddess Astoreth, whose name was altered to Ishtar within the Assyro-Babylonian religions. The goddess Ishtar, who was originally derived from the Sumerian deity Inaana, was worshipped as a significant female deity representing fertility. She was the most important female deity in Mesopotamia throughout the 2nd millennium BC. She was identified with the planet Venus and with the sunrise, and was recognised as the goddess of both sexual love and warfare. The Greeks identified her with Aphrodite. She is commonly depicted naked sometimes with the presence of lions or with wings and a headdress consisting of a solar disc and crescent moon.
Old Babylonian Terracotta Figure of Fertility Goddess
£750.00
A finely moulded Old Babylonian fired terracotta figurine, depicting a naked fertility goddess. Portrayed in an iconic Old Babylonian style, she presents realistic facial features and a plump body that accentuates a sensual appeal. The goddess appears gently gazing forward, clasping her hands below her chest and wearing jewellery on her arms and neck. The reverse of the figure remains unmodelled. The piece is supplied with a custom-made stand.
Please note that the measurements provided below are inclusive of the stand; the statuette itself measures: L 2.4cm x W 2.7 x H 12.2cm.
Condition: Fine condition. A chip to the headpiece and earthy encrustations on the surface.
SOLD
Weight | 88 g |
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Dimensions | L 3.7 x W 4.8 x H 14.5 cm |
Culture | |
Region | |
Pottery and Porcelain |