Fragment of a female Cycladic idol

Description

marble, base

The famous Cycladic idols originate from the early Bronze Age Aegean culture, which flourished from around 3200 to 2000 BC. Along with the Minoan civilization and Mycenaean Greece, the Cycladic people are counted among the three major Aegean cultures.

The marble statuettes are mostly in the form of stylised human figures. They are characterised by their geometric abstraction, with reduced, often only hinted at physical features. The torsos of the idols are particularly remarkable, as they display an astonishing elegance and harmony despite their simplified depiction. A majority of the figurines are female, depicted nude, and with arms folded across the stomach, typically with the right arm held below the left.

The function of these idols remains the subject of scholarly debate to this day. Some researchers assume that they had cultic or religious significance, possibly as representations of deities or as votive offerings. Other interpretations see them as grave goods or status symbols.

Their timeless aesthetics have inspired modern artists and bear witness to the universal expressiveness of ancient art.

Notices

This object is subject to the UNESCO Cultural Heritage Protection Act. Export documents are required for export (subjected to a fee).