1C. Clay bird, possibly Cucuteni (or Vučedol) culture, likely 3rd millennium BC.
The photos of the lot are informative and indicative, and cannot provide a highly detailed view of the object from all angles. We recommend a careful physical inspection of the lot before bidding.
1C. Clay bird, possibly Cucuteni (or Vučedol) culture, likely 3rd millennium BC.
ceramics, hand molding, varnish, brown-yellowish color paste, with fine mineral inclusions, 5.5 x 9 cm
Research information
The piece features an elongated, fusiform shape, with a wider flattened upper end, followed by a bulging median section with an almost oval cross-section, in the form of a bird. The lower end progressively thins out, ending in a rounded tip. On the lateral faces, superficial longitudinal grooves are visible, likely results of manual modeling or a smoothing technique with a tool, probably suggesting the wings. On one of the surfaces, an alveolus can be observed, possibly a firing defect or the area where a modeling paste element came off. The surface is partially covered with a thin varnish, uniformly applied, with a shiny aspect on certain areas; in other portions, it is visibly worn or exfoliated. The piece seems complete but shows pronounced abrasions on edges; micro-cracks; small chips at the ends. The clay seems well kneaded, with fine degreasers, compatible with ancient production. The varnish, defined as a thin, shiny layer, applied to the outer surfaces, suggests either a evolved surface treatment technique unknown in pre-antiquity periods. The overall shape, symmetry, and treatment suggest rather a symbolic/ritual function artifact, not a utilitarian one. The dimensions and execution technique are compatible with ritual objects or figurines from the ancient period, but for a sure cultural attribution, the context of discovery and paste analysis would be necessary.
Areal de circulație: teritoriile culturii Cucuteni, din România, Republica Moldova și Ucraina.
Loc posibil de descoperire: România, Republica Moldova și Ucraina.
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