Constructed between 1600 BC and 1100 BC, these terracotta figures exemplify the advanced artistry of the Mycenaean civilization during the late Bronze Age, as preserved in the archaeological museum at Mycenae, Greece. The figures' stylized, simplified presentation of the human form informs modern understanding of early human representation in European art.
Key features of the figures include flat, circular faces with large, almond-shaped eyes, and cross-hatching that could suggest facial hair or tattoos. Their rounded shoulders and arms positioned at the elbows—either at their hips or the abdominal region—communicate a certain sense of authority.
The variety in clothing sported by these figures imparts information about the societal structures, norms, and fashion during their creation. Figures dressed in more intricate clothing may signify high social rank, while simpler attire suggests common folk. Ornate headdresses worn by some figures suggest religiosity or authority.
Notably, these figures were not crafted individually, but in pairs or groups, perhaps to emphasize social interaction or group rituals. Considered votive offerings, many of these figures were discovered in sanctuaries or holy cave niches, suggesting significance in Mycenaean religious practices.
