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HOME :
Near Eastern Art :
Miscellaneous : Bird Effigy Votive
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Bird Effigy Votive - D.0161
Origin: Lake Van, Anatolia
Circa: 4000
BC
to 3000
BC
Collection: Near Eastern
Medium: Dickite
Location: United States
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| Description |
Abstract and elegant, this ancient votive was
discovered with a cache of related artifacts along
the shores of Lake Van in Armenia. Originally, it
was offered at the shrine of a powerful deity,
perhaps a nature god. The pointed end probably
served to hold the piece upright in the ground
outside a temple. Birds played a prominent role
in this cult, though their exact significance is
uncertain: perhaps they were favored sacrifices
to the god, or they may have represented the
souls of the deceased. This particular sculpture
represents an eagle, fierce and noble. Though a
token from the dawn of western culture, it
radiates a bold, contemporary appeal.
- (D.0161)
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