Ancient Anatolian Terracotta Idol w/ TL

Ancient Near East/Central Asia, Anatolia, ca. late 3rd to early 2nd millennium BCE. A remarkable hand-built terracotta figurative idol of a characteristically abstract form. The minimalist body consists of a stable ovoid base, an expanding rectangular body with prominent shoulders, and a stocky neck. The body features a regal vestment adorned with attractive linear motifs, the neck graced with an incised necklace, and a pair of belts around the waist. The abstract head displays a pair of impressed eyes flanking a bulbous nose, rounded cheeks, and arched eye brows, all beneath a tall headdress with a flared rim on top. Traces of white and red-orange pigment are still visible across the composition and suggest the figure was at one time painted with vivid colors. A stunning example from ancient Anatolia! Size: 3.875" W x 7.5" H (9.8 cm x 19 cm).

This piece has been tested using thermoluminescence (TL) analysis and has been found to be ancient and of the period stated. A full report will accompany purchase.

Provenance: ex-Merrin Gallery, New York, New York, USA; ex-private New York, USA collection, acquired in the 1980s

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

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#148167
Condition Report: Small areas of repair to one shoulder and brim of headdress, with light resurfacing and adhesive residue along break lines. Minor nicks and abrasions to base, body, and head, with fading to original pigmentation, softening to some incised details, and heavy encrustations. Nice earthen deposits and traces of original pigmentation throughout. Two TL drill holes: one beneath base, and one on side of back.