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LOT 0269
Syro-Hittite Bronze Female Idol
2ND MILLENNIUM B.C.
3 1/4 in. (17.7 grams, 83 mm).
Modelled in the round standing figure with pinched facial features, transverse collar, applied breasts, arms bent forward, legs close together.
ProvenancePrivate collection of Mr S.A., Switzerland, 1990s, thence by descent.
LiteratureCf. Zahlhaas, G., Prähistorische Staatssammlung, Idole und Votive, München, 1993, p.32, fig.16.
FootnotesThe Syro-Hittite states rose to prominence in northern Syria and southern Anatolia (modern Turkey) following the collapse of the Hittite Empire, during which time many such figures were produced and widely distributed for domestic use. Such figures, later pejoratively referred to as 'idols', depicted deities often carrying or standing with animals. The present figure's arms are positioned as if holding a lamb or other small animal.
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