Bactrian Stone Pillar Idol

SKU: HQ.0024

Origin: Central Asia
Circa: Late 3rd - early 2nd millennium BC
Dimensions: 9.5" Height (24 cm)
Medium: Stone

A carved stone columnar idol with waisted body, transverse slot to each flat face.

$3,000.00

Ex South London collection; acquired in the late 1990s

Fine, rich layered patina with encrustation

The meaning of these objects in ancient Bactria still mystifies scholars. Many are convinced that they must have had a ritual function and were perhaps worshipped as idols. Others argue that they had a more practical purpose and were used as a counterweight for pounding grain or pumping water.

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