Fragmentary Figurine of a Calf | Harvard Art Museums

Identification and Creation

Object Number: 2022.234
Title: Fragmentary Figurine of a Calf
Classification: Sculpture
Work Type: statuette, sculpture
Date: 3200-2900 BCE
Places: Creation Place: Ancient & Byzantine World, Asia, Mesopotamia
Period: Uruk period
Culture: Sumerian
Persistent Link: https://hvrd.art/o/369972

Physical Descriptions

Medium: Limestone
Technique: Carved
Dimensions: 3.5 × 2 × 4.3 cm (1 3/8 × 13/16 × 1 11/16 in.)

Provenance

Recorded Ownership History: Mary Mitchell (Mrs. Chauncy J.) Blair, Chicago and Chambésy, Geneva (by 1932). [Charles D. Kelekian, New York (by 1952-1982)], by descent; to [Kelekian Associates, New York (1982-1992)], by descent; to Nanette Rodney Kelekian, New York (1992-2021), bequest; to the Harvard Art Museums.

NOTE:
"Kelekian Associates" was formed at the death of Charles D. Kelekian by Nanette Rodney Kelekian and her mother Beatrice Kelekian. Upon Beatrice Kelekian’s death in 1992, ownership passed to Nanette Rodney Kelekian.

Acquisition and Rights

Credit Line: Harvard Art Museums/Arthur M. Sackler Museum, Bequest of Nanette B. Kelekian
Accession Year: 2022
Object Number: 2022.234
Division: Asian and Mediterranean Art
Contact: am_asianmediterranean@harvard.edu
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Descriptions

Description: Only the front part survives of this reclining calf or young bull. The animal is represented with its legs tucked under the body; the tip of the tail is indicated on its right side. Despite its greater relative size, the features of this animal are modeled a little more cursorily than on [ADD acc. no.] The eyes are hollowed for inlays, and the tips of the horns are missing. A hole (diameter 0.15 cm) is drilled horizontally through the back of the figurine, allowing it to be worn as an amulet.

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

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