Near East, Syro-Hittite, ca. 2800 to 1500 BCE. A pottery figure of the goddess Astarte, with a simple physical form until it reaches the arms and shoulders. One arm is folded back on itself while the other touches the chest. The goddess wears a necklace and has a stylized face that is instantly recognizable as from this period. A large, thin nose, some kind of projecting headdress/coiffure, and a pair of huge eyes made from concentric coils of pottery give it its form. The design of the eyes relates to the common motif throughout the Ancient Near East that eyes must be wide and attentive to show religious devotion. Astarte is the goddess who is also known as Ishtar in some parts of Mesopotamia, a goddess associated with femininity, motherhood, and war. Size: 2.1" W x 5.65" H (5.3 cm x 14.4 cm)

Provenance: Ex-NYC collection acquired in 1980's

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#118472

Neck has some repair, but it is well done and difficult to see.