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Identification and Creation

Object Number
1992.256.62
Title
Small Twin Figures
Classification
Sculpture
Work Type
statuette, sculpture
Date
15th-13th century BCE
Places
Creation Place: Ancient & Byzantine World, Asia, Anatolia
Period
Hittite Empire period
Culture
Syro-Hittite
Persistent Link
https://hvrd.art/o/310319

Physical Descriptions

Medium
Bronze
Technique
Cast, lost-wax process
Dimensions
5.1 x 3.2 x 1.4 cm (2 x 1 1/4 x 9/16 in.)
Technical Details

Chemical Composition: ICP-MS/AAA data from sample, Bronze:
Cu, 91.22; Sn, 7.65; Pb, 0.46; Zn, 0.002; Fe, 0.02; Ni, 0.05; Ag, 0.03; Sb, 0.11; As, 0.46; Bi, less than 0.025; Co, less than 0.005; Au, less than 0.01; Cd, less than 0.001
J. Riederer

Technical Observations: The object is a solid cast. It is intact but with casting flaws and little remaining surface detail. Tool marks on the surface appear to be modern. The patina is green over black, brown, and bare metal. There are tan burial deposits in low areas.


Carol Snow (submitted 2002)

Provenance

Recorded Ownership History
Louise M. and George E. Bates, Camden, ME (by 1971-1992), gift; to the Harvard University Art Museums, 1992.

Acquisition and Rights

Credit Line
Harvard Art Museums/Arthur M. Sackler Museum, Gift of Louise M. and George E. Bates
Accession Year
1992
Object Number
1992.256.62
Division
Asian and Mediterranean Art
Contact
am_asianmediterranean@harvard.edu
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Descriptions

Published Catalogue Text: Ancient Mediterranean and Near Eastern Bronzes at the Harvard Art Museums
The bodies of these two standing figures merge in the front but are clearly separated at the back, where the individual pairs of legs are delineated. The small knob-like projection at the bottom upon which the figures rest probably represents the casting vent. The figures have pointed heads and simplified beak-like noses. Their outer arms project horizontally; their inner arms cross, with the left arm of one figure overlying the right arm of the other.
This small group may represent twin deities. It is uncertain whether this couple is composed of two males, two females, or a male and female.

David G. Mitten

Subjects and Contexts

  • Ancient Bronzes

Related Works

Verification Level

This record has been reviewed by the curatorial staff but may be incomplete. Our records are frequently revised and enhanced. For more information please contact the Division of Asian and Mediterranean Art at am_asianmediterranean@harvard.edu