Female Clay Idol with Hands Extended

From Tureng Tepe
End of 3rd millennium B.C
University Museum, Philadelphia

This figure of a woman is a very important piece, which venerates the goddess that it embodies or represents. Probably the most striking characteristic of this small-scale sculpture is its geometric, two-dimensional nature, which has a strangely modern familiarity.

As the piece dates back to the 3rd millennium B.C, from Tureng Tepe- modern day Iran, it is more reflective of this ancient artists attempt to represent the human form, unlike a modern artist who would attempt to estrange itself from artistic complexity. The goddess’s body is voluminously proportioned; she has broad hips, a large rounded buttocks, and ample breasts. She stands upright before the viewer with arms spread like wings so that the figure seems light and dignified despite its full proportions. Her face, although rather unsightly, is strong and portrayed by the artist with only the nose and two round holes for eyes. An elaborate hairstyle frame enhances her face and her head is further detailed with many necklaces and a crown. She is a stately figure, who strongly declares her presence and demands the respect of her spiritual followers.