Bronze female figure

Unknown

ca. 1700–1600 BCE · Bronze · Greek and Roman Art

The Minoans often deposited small objects of clay, stone, and metal—such as this bronze female figure—in sacred places, most notably caves and mountain-peak sanctuaries, as votive dedications to a deity. The practice—a feature of both ancient and modern religions—was based on the belief that one could communicate with the divine through symbolic gifts, either in the hope that the god or goddess would grant a request or as thanks for a favorable outcome. The male and female figures raising one arm in a gesture of devotion likely represent human worshippers.

Artist

Unknown

Date

ca. 1700–1600 BCE

Medium

Bronze

Culture

Minoan

Department

Greek and Roman Art

Credit line

Funds from various donors, 1924