Terracotta model of a shrine

Unknown

ca. 600–480 BCE · Terracotta · Greek and Roman Art

The model originally had pilasters on either side of the opening. The vertical form inside is an aniconic representation of the fertility goddess Astarte. Similar depictions are known from the Levant and Cyprus. Model shrines began to be made in Cyprus during the Chalcolithic period and, due to Phoenician influence, were produced in particular quantity during the Archaic period. All of the excavated examples come from tombs.

Artist

Unknown

Date

ca. 600–480 BCE

Medium

Terracotta

Culture

Cypriot

Department

Greek and Roman Art

Credit line

The Cesnola Collection, Purchased by subscription, 1874–76