Neo-Hittite and Syro-Hittite were empires during the Iron Age and were located in parts of modern-day Turkey and the surrounding areas. The empire lasted until the 8th century BC when they were overrun by the Assyrians. These types of figurines usually have columnar and flat bodies with heads and torsos decorated with incisions. Some of them might have represented gods, particularly female deities that ensured fertility. However, the figures are also know to represent worshipers. Due to the protruding nose, figurines such as this are characterised as having bird-like faces. They are usually of modest dimensions, and found in graves or under the floors of the houses.
Syro-Hittite Terracotta Fertility Idol
$656.84
A Syro-Hittite fertility idol moulded from terracotta featuring the figure with her arms outstretched to the sides exposing her breasts. Her facial features have been stylistically rendered with the large, circular, sunken eyes and a hooked nose. She is wearing a large headdress decorated with small incisions in the forms of dots and lines along with three piercing across the top. The idol has been mounted on a custom-made stand.
Provenance: Acquired on the UK art market from various auction houses and collections mostly before 2000. From an important Cambridgeshire estate; thence by descent.
Condition: Fine condition, chip to headdress and back of one of the arms. Encrustation is visible to the surface. Measurements of the figure alone; 8.3cm height, 4cm width
In stock
| Weight | 60 g |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | W 4.8 x H 9.6 cm |
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| Pottery and Porcelain | |
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