Ancient Near East, Babylonian, 2nd millennium BCE. A lovely press-molded clay plaque displaying a full-length standing figure of the enchanting Astarte (also known as Ashtoreth and Ishtar in parts of Mesopotamia) - a goddess associated with sexuality, war, and fertility - in relief. She holds her hands beneath her bosom, a characteristic pose for the goddess which has been interpreted as a gesture of fertility. Her form is slender and well-composed, and her tranquil visage stares serenely past the confines of space and time. Strong detailing of her visage, headdress, and coiffure sets this example apart. Size: 5.625" H (14.3 cm); 6.25" H (15.9 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: private East Coast, USA collection

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#131307

Expected surface wear commensurate with age, some losses to verso and peripheries as shown, but most of the body form is visible with nice details. Areas of encrustation.