Near East, Syro-Hittite, ca. 2800 to 1500 BCE. An abstract pottery figure of the goddess Astarte, made to have a simple physical form until it reaches the arms and shoulders, where it becomes detailed. Her arms curve up to touch her chest. The goddess wears a necklace and has a stylized face that is instantly recognizable as from this period. A large, thin nose, some kind of projecting headdress/coiffure, and a pair of huge eyes made from concentric coils of pottery give it its form. The design of the eyes relates to the common motif throughout the Ancient Near East that eyes must be wide and attentive to show religious devotion. Astarte is the goddess who is also known as Ishtar in some parts of Mesopotamia, a goddess associated with femininity, motherhood, and war. Size: 2" W x 5" H (5.1 cm x 12.7 cm); 5.5" H (14 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: private Swiss collection

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#124187

Loss to back of head. Excellent remaining detail with light deposits.