Syro-Hittite Terracotta Figurine of a Quadruped

$94.78

A finely moulded Syro-Hittite terracotta figurine of a quadruped, probably a dog. The animal is presented in a standing stance with its tail pointing upwards. The legs are sculpted as four short conical protuberances, which are evenly spaced to balance its body weight. Its head is horizontally perforated, suggesting it was once worn as a personal ornament. 

Date: Circa 2000-1800 BC
Provenance: Ex private collection, S.M., London, acquired 1970-99.
Condition: Fine condition, signs of erosion remain visible.

SOLD

The Neo-Hittite civilisation, also known as Syro-Hittite, existed during the Iron Age in northern Syria and Southern Anatolia. The Hittite empire collapsed around 1180 BC followed by the decline of the Eastern Mediterranean trade networks, and the fall of the major late Bronze Age cities in the Levant, Anatolia, and the Aegean.

A votive offering is an object displayed in a sacred place for religious purposes, in order to gain the favour of supernatural forces. The worshippers considered it to be a gift to the god: pottery, jewellery, weapons, statues, and animals offerings were all possible forms that a votive offering could take.

Weight 541 g
Dimensions L 5.9 x W 2.4 x H 3.1 cm
Culture

Pottery and Porcelain

Region

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