Photo © The Israel Museum, Jerusalem, by Vladimir Naikhin |
|
|
Figurine of a cow
Greece Archaic period, 6th century BCE Stone H: 5; L: 14.9 cm Gift of Claire Huchet-Bishop, New York, to American Friends of the Israel Museum, in memory of Dr. Arthur Briskier Accession number: 79.23.72 |
|
|
Cows, raised as livestock for meat, dairy products, and leather, were the oldest form of wealth and a symbol of abundance. They were sacred to Hera, the goddess of marriage, who was also known as Bopis, meaning “cow-eyed.” Figurines of cows were commonly dedicated at her temples. Digital presentation of this object was made possible by: The Ridgefield Foundation, New York, in memory of Henry J. and Erna D. Leir |
|
