Ancient Near East, Syro-Hittite, ca. 2000 to 1500 BCE. An abstract ceramic horse and rider. The horse has a simplified, triangular shape; his body and the body of the rider blend into a single form. The head of the man emerges from immediately behind the horse's head; he wears a pointed cap and has a beard. Size: 2.25" L x 1.2" W x 4.25" H (5.7 cm x 3 cm x 10.8 cm)

Figures like these - possibly made for cultic use, to pray for the health of horses or the protection of a rider - are known from the ancient Near East at remarkably early dates. They remind us of how essential the horse was to the development of early human civilization, drastically reducing the time required to transport goods, move armies, and communicate across long distances.

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

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#121591

Piece has been repaired at the upper body of the man.