Egypt, Coptic culture, ca. 1st century BCE to 1st century CE. A highly abstract anthropomorphic figure carved and polished from bone. The "head" area is triangular, and the torso long and rectangular, with two tiny feet sticking out from the bottom of it. Concentric circles incised along the top of the torso were probably made as additional protection against the "evil eye". Tiny holes have been drilled at the top of the torso, bottom of the torso, and along the back of the head. Overall, the figure looks like a cloaked person standing in profile. Comes with custom stand. Size: 1.05" W x 4.4" H (2.7 cm x 11.2 cm); height on stand: 4.9" (12.4 cm)

Votive idols like this one are known in a variety of fascinating forms throughout the pre-literate ancient world. From the truly abstract Kilia-type figures that are barely recognizable as human to the exaggerated feminine shapes of so-called "Venus" figures, people in the past, as today, had a clear desire to portray human forms and did not feel constrained by naturalism. This was probably carved and owned by an ordinary person and may have been buried with them.

Provenance: private New Jersey USA collection, acquired over twenty years ago

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#121522

Top and back of head has been repaired. Small areas of damage to back of figure.