Skip to product information
Syro-Hittite terracotta fertility figure, 1500–900 B.C., Astarte idol, provenance Canadian and Essex collections.
  • Syro-Hittite terracotta fertility figure, 1500–900 B.C., Astarte idol, provenance Canadian and Essex collections.
Syro-Hittite Terracotta Fertility Figure 1500–900 B.C.
$1,395.00

Date

1500–900 B.C.

Dimensions

5 ½ in. (14 cm), 78 g

Material

Terracotta 

Condition

Very Good – intact with minor chips.

Description

A standing museum quality female deity figure (possibly Astarte), wearing a long robe and necklace, arms bent with hands placed at the chest. Fertility idols of this type symbolised abundance, protection, and divine intercession in domestic ritual contexts.

Scholarly Reference

Cf. Zahlhaas, G., Idole und Votive, München, 1993, p. 32, fig. 16.

Provenance

  • Canadian gentleman’s collection (formed 1920s–1990s)
  • By descent to Essex lady until the late 1990s
  • Later private Essex gentleman’s collection, 1990s onwards
  • TimeLine Auctions, London, September 2025

Authentication

Cleared by the Art Loss Register and Accompanied by illustrated lot declaration signed by Head of Antiquities Dr. Raffaele D’Amato.
CARE & MAINTENANCE

Handle artifacts gently with clean hands or gloves, avoid harsh cleaning products, and dust only with a soft brush. Store or display pieces in a stable environment away from sunlight, heat, and moisture. Wrap in acid-free tissue for transport, and consult a professional conservator for any restoration needs.
RETURNS

Due to the unique and irreplaceable nature of our artefacts, all sales are final. We do not accept returns or exchanges unless an item arrives damaged in transit or is proven with professional documentation to be inauthentic. In this rare case, we will offer a full refund. in the event of damage during transit, please contact us within 48 hours of delivery with photographs to assist you.