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Cypriot Bronze Age Terracotta Plank Idol

$164,450.48
£120,000
€139,999.49
CA$225,256.05
A$250,533.89
CHF 130,821.02
MX$3,048,731.04
NOK 1,670,784
SEK 1,566,900.63
DKK 1,044,869.85
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About the Item

This extremely well-preserved, stylised Cypriot plank idol is an iconic form of human representation from Bronze Age Cyprus. Made from burnished earthenware with lime-filled incisions, the flat, rectangular body and incised decoration, possibly indicating clothing or jewellery, casts a strikingly modern silhouette. Yet this abstract and geometric form reflects the island’s unique cultural identity during a period of significant economic and artistic development. Plank idols are believed to have held religious significance, potentially representing deities, ancestor idols or votive offerings, but above all their conspicuous design is clear - they were intended to be viewed in day-to-day life. Their enduring appeal today remains on account of their minimal yet charming aesthetic, and as an icon of the Bronze Age Mediterranean, plank idols are a crucial addition to any collection. This idol, with its harmonious proportions and minimalist aesthetic, is a particularly charming display piece symbolic of one of the greatest civilisations of the Bronze Age Mediterranean. Provenance: Collection de Mme S.; Objets de Haute Curiosité et d’Archéologie, Hôtel Drouot, Paris, 2nd June 1967, Lot 99. Mr and Mrs Jacques and Françoise Martinet collection, acquired at the above sale Thence by descent. Please note that this item is a work of art and is thus exempt from US reciprocal tariffs. ArtAncient are dealers in rare wonders from the formation of the Solar System to late antiquity, discovering, studying and placing objects in extraordinary collections. Do not hesitate to contact us for more details on this piece.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 9.26 in (23.5 cm)Width: 2.96 in (7.5 cm)Depth: 0.28 in (7 mm)
  • Style:
    Prehistoric (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    Bronze Age, c.2100-1850 BC
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use.
  • Seller Location:
    London, GB
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: 431941stDibs: LU1052246013092

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