Central Asia, Indus Valley, Meghargh period, ca. 3500 to 2800 BCE. A lovely ensemble of fifteen Bronze Age Indus Valley pottery fertility idols, nine fragmentary pieces and six full figures. Many of the full figures are shown in fine detail with deep-set round eyes, bird-like faces and veiled headdresses over lobed coiffures, and large pectorals; some of the figures, however, have small round eyes set over ovular bases. Each figure has long and thin limbs, prominent breasts, and narrow midsections. The figural fragments mostly consist of the upper torsos and heads of the fertility idols, with similar prominent breasts and rounded eyes. Two of the fragments, however, are head-shaped idols with long necks which flare into their own respective bases. With a variety of colors from cream, brown, and burnt orange, this is a wonderful gathering of incredibly ancient idol figures! Custom clear-panel case included. Size of largest figure: 1.5" W x 4.75" H (3.8 cm x 12.1 cm).

Figurines of women are perhaps the most plentiful of the figurines in the Indus Valley. The reason for this is unknown, but some researchers have proposed that women were particularly revered in that society, perhaps relating to their roles as mothers. Studies of burial sites at Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa have shown that a man was often buried with his wife’s family. The female figurines are easily distinguished by a curving, pear-shaped body with large protruding breasts. The effect of these female figurines is two-fold: it emphasizes the beauty, and phallic/ sexual nature of the female; but at the same time, cherishes the nurturing, motherly nature of the female. The figurines of the women tend to also be heavily ornamented.

Provenance: private Ventura County, California, USA collection

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#122160

Nine of fifteen pieces are fragments of larger figures, and all full figures have either multiple areas of repair or restoration. All items have age-commensurate surface wear, mineral deposits, and earthen deposits. Some items have losses to bodies or limbs, and some have visible adhesive residue.