Cycladic female figurine from Early Bronze Age Greece

National Archeological Museum, Athens, Greece

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Material: Parian marble
Date range: 2800-2300 BC
Origin: Syros, Greece (Cycladic Islands)

This female figurine was likely used in religious or ritual activities in Early Cycladic society. It may represent a goddess, an ancestor, or a symbol of fertility. The simple carved designs on its surface, such as the zigzag pattern across the chest and the triangle on the lower body, probably had special meaning for people in the Bronze Age Cyclades. Figurines like this were often placed in graves or kept in household shrines, showing that they helped connect the living with the spiritual world.

The human form is shown in a very simple and abstract way, which was typical of Cycladic religious art. Instead of looking realistic, the shape was meant to express sacred ideas. The broad shoulders and straight, flat form link this figurine to the Chalandriani-Dokathismata style, used in the central Cyclades during the third millennium BC. Signs of wear on similar figurines suggest they were held and used during rituals or ceremonies.

Museum label reference: These female figurines belong to 'Chalandriani' type of Syros, deriving from 'Dokathismata' variety. Their hallmark is linear configuration and wide shoulders. Figurine 27 has breasts, but the weapon strap across the chest, the belt and penis sheath outstretch its masculinity. From Ios and Syros (6165, 3916, 5380, 3435, 6167). The 'harpist' of Naxos of Parian marble. The musician, seating on a stool, holds a triangular harp on his right thigh and with his extended left hand probably played music (8833).

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Early Cycladic female figurine of the Chalandriani-Dokathismata type from Syros, displaying linear configuration and geometric pattern

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Source:  Athens, Greece