Statue of a figure with a large basin
Basalt
H: 110; W: 90; Diam: 78 cm
Israel Antiquities Authority
IAA:
1997-3296
Archaeology/Chalcolithic & Canaanite Periods
This statue was found in the throne room of the palace/temple at Hazor. It shattered into hundreds of fragments in the fire that destroyed the city. Though nothing like it has come to light anywhere in the Near East, its style bears a clear link to Syrian and Hittite art. The basin suggests it was used in a religious rite.
The figure wears a pendant in the shape of a crescent with an eight-rayed star, symbols of a prominent deity. However, there is no way of telling whether it represents a god or a ruler.
Exhibitions:
Beliefs and Believers; Ancient Art from the Israel Museum, Israel Museum, Jerusalem, 31/05/2007 - 05/11/2009
