Bronze Age Idols Discovered in Western Anatolia – History

Many small ritual figures dating back to 4,500 years have been found in Tavşanlımound in western Anatolia. These idols are made of a variety of materials, including marble, bone and clay, and provide new revelations for the religious Anatolia and sculpture production techniques of the Bronze Age.

The team unearthed seven of these idols, all of which were made of clay, which were roughly anthropomorphic in shapes and were laid side by side around the fireplace in the middle of the building. Archaeologists assume that their intentional placement and human form may involve social relations and religious practices surrounding the fire in the furnace, which are used in supply and ritual rituals in addition to providing food and warmth to families.

In addition to idols, excavators also discovered unfinished ceramic containers, thus clarifying the production methods of the Bronze Age. These artifacts demonstrate how the shape and dismissal of the original clay are linked to family spirit and economic life.

The dual existence of ritual objects and workshop materials suggests that Tavşanlı Höyük can serve as not only as a settlement but also as a religious and cultural center with skilled production.

The site’s excavation is underway and is expected to continue until December. Archaeologists hope to find remains of settlements to shed evidence of urban layout and connections with other communities in the area.