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Near Eastern Art :
Miscellaneous : Neolithic Dickite Votive Figure with an Intaglio
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Neolithic Dickite Votive Figure with an Intaglio - D.0020
Origin: Lake Van, Anatolia
Circa: 4000
BC
to 3000
BC
Collection: Near Eastern
Style: Neolithic
Medium: Dickite
Location: United States
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| Description |
Carved in the abstract shape of a crested bird,
perhaps a hoopoe or woodpecker, this unusual
votive was offered centuries ago at the shrine of
a powerful deity. It was discovered with a cache
of related artifacts along the shores of lake van
in Armenia. The cult apparently was concerned
with nature, animal fertility, perhaps with the
afterlife. The recurring motif of the bird may
relate to the idea of the soul. The image
engraved on the base of the seal shows a seated
idol facing a horned animal. It is perhaps an early
example of the "master of the beasts" theme, an
attempt to control the forces of nature which was
popular throughout the near east. To hold this
splendid token of a vanished world is to recall
dreams, hopes and passions that are as old as
civilization itself.
- (D.0020)
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