Steatite miniature offering table

Unknown

ca. 2000–1700 BCE · Steatite · Greek and Roman Art

The Minoans often deposited small objects of clay, stone, and metal (such as the miniature offering table here) 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.

Artist

Unknown

Date

ca. 2000–1700 BCE

Medium

Steatite

Culture

Minoan

Department

Greek and Roman Art

Credit line

Bequest of Richard B. Seager, 1926