Description

This marble figurine has been discovered near Sesklo settlement in Thessaly during early XXth century and dates back to the beginning of the neolithization of the old Europe (7th millenium B.C.).
This mother goddess shows common steatopygous features, such as big breasts, belly and buttocks. Some details such as its vulva and its feet are clearly represented. The ovoid head with a thin sculpted nose bears the distinctive features of cycladic idols that were widespread afterwards in the greek region. It is very likely that it is linked to Anatolian representation of goddesses, featuring an overeight modeling. The whole figurine is very schematic, its arms being for instance more imaginative than clearly distinguishable. Thus, this kind of idols could be a missing link between Anatolian and Greek neolithic art. Indeed, it is a kind of masterwork that could be present in numerous contempory art sculptures.

Condition

Very good polish with a stunning patina. No missing / broken part.

Provenance

From an old French collection (Assier’s collection).