Bird Goddess

Date2000-1250 BCE

Artist Syrian (Syrian, NA)

CultureSyrian

Mediumterracotta

DimensionsSight: 6 3/8 x 2 1/2 x 1 3/8 in. (16.19 x 6.35 x 3.49 cm)

Credit LinePurchase, Betsy Mudge Wilson, class of 1956, Memorial Fund

On View

Not on view

Periodc2000 - 1700 (Sotheby's) or 1750 - 1250 BCE (Card)

Classification(s)

ProvenanceAntiquarium, Ltd., 1987; Frances Lehman Loeb Art Center (formerly Vassar College Art Gallery), Poughkeepsie, New York, 1987

Vassar Exhibitions

Classical Antiquities from the Permanent Collection

DescriptionAstarte figurine. Its neutral fired clay has been shaped by hand to emphasize her angular figure and ornate headdress. She holds her arms against her chest; her hands clench two pieces tightly, perhaps offerings. She wears separate a necklace-choker which has been incised with a dotted decoration. A similar dotted incising has been detailed at her thighs. Her long neck holds her head upright and her well-defined eyes have been deeply carved to face out at us. The traditional headdress in angular style has been created with several round pierced cut-outs which might have been wrapped in antiquity with gold earrings. An attractive feathering completes her detailed portrait which is further enhanced by her delicate sandy encrustation which cover much of her clay body. Unlike the more common terracotta Astartes which were crudely shaped without much detail, this particular piece has an attractive intricate design and remains in good condition with only minor repair which is common with these particular pieces.

Terms

Antiquity

Object information is a work in progress and may be updated as new research findings emerge. To help improve this record, please email loebcollections@vassar.edu