Greek Figurine: Fragmentary Figurine

Inv. No.: 82.037
Provenance: Laconia (?) (Mycenae)
Date: 8th-early 6th century BC
Height: 35mm
Diameter: 31mm
 
Gift of Dr Gertrude Langer.

The top half of a small figurine, probably depicting a standing woman holding her arms out to the sides. The torso is formed from a cylindrical piece of clay with triangular arms projecting from each side at the top. The top half of the head is broken off. The clay is orange-brown in colour and traces of white remain. This very simple piece was purchased at Mycenae, but resembles early hand-made Laconian figurines that date from the 8th to the early 6th centuries. A larger 8th century standing figure from Eleusis is also similar in its stance and rudimentary forms.

Function:
Unknown; possibly used for votive or funerary purposes.

Manufacture:
This piece has been shaped by hand.

Bibliography:
Higgins, R. A., Catalogue of the Terracottas in the Department of Greek and Roman Antiquities, British Museum, second edition, London, British Museum, 1969, I (Text), 277-279.

Higgins, R. A., Greek Terracottas, London, Methuen, 1967, 20-24

Comparanda:
Higgins, R. A., Catalogue of the Terracottas in the Department of Greek and Roman Antiquities, British Museum, second edition, London, British Museum, 1970, I (Plates), Plate 141, 1004-1006.

Higgins, R. A., Greek Terracottas, London, Methuen, 1967, Plate 7, E (8th century woman from Eleusis).