Archaic I

Free Field Anthropomorphic Date Palm Oinochoe

Ancient Cypriot Jug in the Free Field Style (circa 700-600 B.C.) The jug (Oinochoe) is 22cm tall and depicts a free field scene. The scene shows an antelope or deer like animal next to a human shaped figure drawn in an abstract form. The Cypriot Iron Age (1050-480 B.C.) introduced new styles of pottery and motifs that deviated from the earlier Bronze Age traditions. The most iconic of these new styles is the Geometric style, characterized by a liberal use of circles, arrows, and other prototypical patterns harmoniously arranged to create captivating artistic compositions. However, Cypriot potters, potentially inspired by their neighbors throughout the Levant, soon began to break free from the confines of these Iron Age patterns and ventured into the realm of free field art. This style is distinguished by its intricate, free-flowing forms that allowed for greater artistic expression and experimentation. One of the most popular subjects in free field art was the depiction of birds and other animals. However, in very rare cases, human forms were also represented. This ancient Cypriot jug, dating back to circa 700-600 B.C., is one such exceptional example. Alongside a more commonly seen antelope, we find an abstract representation of a human figure. The identity and significance of this human form remain enigmatic. While it is tempting to interpret the figure as a deity or shaman and assign religious meaning, conclusive evidence supporting such claims is scarce. The scarcity of parallels to this human representation in contemporary Cypriot pottery adds to the enigma surrounding its meaning and purpose. Further research and comparative analysis with other artifacts from the region and period may shed light on the intended symbolism behind this intriguing figure.